The following case studies describe horses, pre-massage evaluations, massage and findings. Owners agreed to have this information including images published to this website.
Horse Name/ Age |
Ellie, 22 |
Owner |
Josie M. |
Gender |
Mare Gelding Stud |
Color/breed |
sorrel/QH |
location |
CrdgRdg, Wisconsin |
Date |
6/17/08 (Massage I of II) |
|
|
HORSE HISTORY and Owner/handler states re precondition:: The mare has severe arthritis in the both knee joint, especially visible in the left knee, where bone mass is potruding and the horse has difficulty straightening the leg. The horse was recently injected in both knee joints and is ridden lightly (English). Owner noticed soreness in the right shoulder.
|
| Right Side |
Left Side |
| Horses sensitivities/issues as described: |
| [insert image here] |
[insert image here] |
| Horses condition/sensitivities/issues found during massage: |
| [insert image here] |
[insert image here] |
MASSAGE NOTES |
(L=light, M=Medium, H=High) |
Atlas/Poll: light sensitivity, responded nicely to massage
Neck: surprisingly supple, not noticeable unusual stiffness
Shoulder: stiffness in the entire shoulder apparatus, muscle spasm behind upper scapula
Front leg: cannot bend or straighten leg entirely, cooperated nicely with loosening exercises
Withers: light sensitivity around the whithers
Back: light sensitivity in the small of the back, relaxed during rocking of the spine, tensed up when rocking against ribs
Sacroiliac: no sensitivities, responded nicely, relaxed tail
Hip: light stiffness around hip movement/dropping
Right hind leg:
limited movement of right hind leg, stiffness
|
Atlas/Poll: light sensitivity, responded nicely to massage
Neck: surprisingly supple, no noticeable unusual stiffness
Shoulder: stiffness in the entire shoulder apparatus
Front leg: cannot bend or straighten leg entirely, even more pronounced on left side, cooperated nicely under the circumstances when stretching
Withers: no sensitivity
Back: no sensitivity
Sacroiliac: no sensitivity
Hip: lightly stiff
Left hind leg: no unusual stiffness
|
Summary: Considering her age and her arthritic condition Ellie is in very good muscular shape. The stiffness around the shoulders, withers and in the small of the back, as well as the muscle spasm in the right shoulder can be attributed to her trying to ease the load on the afflicted left knee.
Recommendation: Massage once a month to ease muscle tension/spasms and loosen up shoulders, this will help lower the impact on Ellie's knees in all gaits, but especially the trot and make her more comfortable.
Please Note: Equine Massage is NEVER a substitute for proper veterinary care. If in doubt about the physical condition of your horse, please consult your vet.
|
