EPSM/ PSSM- experiences

[Laura2013]

I am just wondering from anyone who has a horse with EPSM, or who has had a horse tested-

How 'obvious' were the symptoms? Was the horse having tying up episodes?
For a horse of a particularly susceptible breed (QH), would you test for quite mild symptoms- stiffness and hard muscles behind, sometimes grinding to halt, particularly when turning out in the morning or on the way home from a ride, these symptoms have come on recently, although I have been bringing the horse back into work for a while.

Are there triggers that aren't work related- spring grass for example?

Has anyone used the hair test? Is it worth it for a first step?

Horse has seen vet and physio in last 2 - 3 weeks but I am still wondering.

 

[dianchi]

Blood test is best solution.

Worth looking at diet regardless!

 

[Domirati]

Ours stopped jumping combination fences. Vet said in him it was more like him getting cramp than full blown tying up. They think his was caused by a virus which he picked up at pony club camp, he rode through it for too long and damaged his muscles. He is not severe but his readings never go below 750. We had lots of blood tests and then the muscle biopsy. His is not hereditary. If at all concerned I would have a blood test done. It is not overly expensive. Also change his diet to high oil and low starch. Ours does really well on ERS pellets and releve - he refuses to eat Alpha oil. I also give a vitamin and mineral supplement. Unfortunately eighteen months on he has never got back to the level he was working at. I can tell if he is not right as he tenses his back when mounted.