The Back In Balance Practice - Forums

[slaneyrose]

Hi, I have a 3yr old gelding on trial from a dealer but when I had the vet check him out (he has been broken and is pretty muscled up so I suspect he may have been used as a trotter) the vet noticed slight lameness when watching him trot from behind and consequently discovered a knot of muscle spasm in his back to the left of his spine about 3 inches from the point of his hip. He has advised it be checked again in 3 weeks and that if its only muscle injury it will resolve in that time. I am concerned about his back as I really like this horse and would like to buy him...is 3 weeks really enough? And in your opinion if there was any serious damage to his back would he not be showing more signs ie: more obvious lameness etc?? what kind of things should I look for?? He doesnt mind being saddled up but when I just sat on his back he looked uncomfortable (or possibly fearful) Please help...if he cant be ridden he may end up as dog meat or worse. thanks Kim

[mariajones]

Hello
I read your comment.Muscle spasm is a protective reaction to strain damage, which locks the back to prevent further strains. It can be very painful. Episodes of muscle spasm normally subside on their own, provided that further strain is avoided.
Treatment is generally a matter of being careful and allowing the damaged body tissue to heal itself over time Like Anti-inflammatory or pain-relieving drugs,Electrical treatment etc
Thank you..