Petey is a 22 year old Appaloosa who is dearly loved and used for trail riding. Petey has becomeprogressively more uncomfortable up front. In recent months, his farrier has noted that Petey’s RF leg will tremble and nearly give out when his LF limb is flexed. The farrier has to give Petey frequent breaks to get his feet trimmed. Since falling on a trail ride last year, he has been tripping more frequently, worse on the RF.
- leans on LF / RF toed out
- neck bulged left (serratus)
- R pectoral muscle atrophied
- latissimus sore on L side
- knees – effusion bilaterally
- scapulas – R bulged, L hollow
- 1/5 lame on RF
- lameness worsened with tack
Diagnostics:
Radiographs of both knees were taken for comparison. Significant remodeling / osteoarthritis was noted (see images). Joint injections of both knees were performed to help with Petey’s comfort level. Shockwave of Petey’s lower neck and thoracic sling was completed to help with neck tension and muscular compensation.
Results:
Petey was rechecked 2 weeks following his initial appointment. Petey’s owner had been diligently following his rehabilitation program. Petey was enjoying work and his comfort level had improved dramatically. He was able to stand comfortably with either front limb in flexion. Palpation of Petey’s neck and shoulders improved, with the exception of the tree point region on Petey’s left thoracic trapezius. Petey’s owners have scheduled a professional saddle fit consultation. Petey was sound at his recheck visit. A final shockwave treatment was performed to help with his residual soreness behind his withers. We can’t wait to see Petey on the trail!
