vet focus
This image of a horse’s spine clearly shows areas of impingement – and damage - between adjacent vertebrae – so-called ‘kissing spines’
Assessment of the equine back will often include evaluating the horse moving, usually on both reins. Following any treatment, a dynamic assessment confirms improvement and identifies any need for further rehabilitation
be found in the middle of the back and soft tissue injuries at either end of the spine. The type of work being done is worth considering in detail, as sacro-iliac strains are common in horses jumping at speed, whereas kissing spines may be more common in show jumpers. Some perceived back problems may in fact be more concerned with schooling of the horse. The strength and conditioning of the horse is important, as the muscles and ligaments of the back have to be fit to carry the rider and perform the type and level of work required. In some cases a ‘miss match’ between the rider size and the
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stature of the horse must also be considered; something that can be particularly important during rehabilitation after an injury.
Diagnosis
Once a diagnosis is formed, the treatment usually involves a combination of techniques. This is an area where there is generally good co-operation between vets, grooms, saddle fitters, chiropractors and physiotherapists. All of these play an important role in the treatment and rehabilitation of back injuries.
Treatment
All treatment will be individual to a particular horse, but will potentially include some or all of:
Specific injections, medications and surgical procedures Physical therapy and ground work techniques Chiropractic Acupuncture Saddle fitting
Prognosis
The prognosis can vary dependent on the age of the horse, the severity of the problem and the type of work to which the horse will be expected to return. Some horses return to the original level of performance without further issues, but for others, particularly where there is a long-standing or recurrent problem in an older horse, a step-down in workload may be required. It may also be prudent in some cases to review the size (and weight) of the rider the horse is expected to carry.
Equine Page 17
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