back checks?

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Do you need a vet referral for a routine back check? I would like to include it as part of my routine checks eg teeth, vaccs etc but not sure how to go about it. Also what type of back person would you use - physio/osteo etc?
Thanks
 
I have never needed a referal to have either of mine checked. My back man simply asks if they are under veterinary care which they never are. If they are under vets care then he needs a referal but if they are't he doesn't. I think he is an equine physio but I would have to check my last examination sheet to be certain. I include it as my checks as if my tbs back is wrong it really affects her performance and it's worth the check up fee to try and avoid this.
 
I use a McTimoney Chiropractor and she was originally referred to me via my vet to treat my mare under sedation. She's since treated our other horses without a referral for check up and minor treatment.
 
Veterinary Physiotherapists are chartered and so need to work with your vets advice/approval and any good alternative therapist whether they are a physio, Osteo etc, should get the ok from your vet and take their details, if only for the horses sake and welfare.

I will personally only use a physio if I feel my horse has a problem somewhere, but prefer to use it in addition to any veterinary advice/treatment.
 
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I'm sure I read that any treatment that aims to treat the horse's health needs to be referred through or ok-ed by a vet.

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Yes, its actually illegal for them to be working without a vets referral.
 
That's interesting - so even if I don't suspect any back problems, I would still need permission for my vets to have them checked over? Does this normally require a vet visit or just a phone call for permission?
Also, just on the off chance, any recommendations for back people in South Shrops?
Thanks
 
i am an equine massage therapist and you must always make your vet aware that i am coming to treat the horse. that way the vet can request a copy of what i find if they want.

all therapists are meant to do this.
 
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That's interesting - so even if I don't suspect any back problems, I would still need permission for my vets to have them checked over? Does this normally require a vet visit or just a phone call for permission?
Also, just on the off chance, any recommendations for back people in South Shrops?
Thanks

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But if you dont suspect any back problems why would you want to get it checked? I would say normally, a horse is lame/showing signs of pain which is why people want to get their backs checked, but the vet should always be called out first as (no offence to anyone) they are more qualified to make a judgement of how to treat it?
 
For a routine check once you have asked your vet and as long as your horses is not undergoing treatment then a back person can go a head.


I treat a lot of horses and as long as you inform the owners vet that is all you need to do.

A horse does not need to be in pain , a different way they move or the saddle slipping etc can indicate that there is a problem
 
In response to 'Gigglepig' (love your name!), I don't suspect teeth problems with them either, but always have a yearly check!
Probably over-pampering my horses but they have both worked hard over the hunting season and would like to give them a full health check whilst they have a well deserved break for a few weeks.
 
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