Horse has damaged tail. Anyone experienced this?

[Tangaroo]

My horse seems to have damaged his tail. He cant lift it or swish it and if i try and touch the dock he hunches his back and nearly sits down, putting his ears back, so obviously very painful. I have rung the vet and they said give him bute today in case its bruised and if no better tomorrow, take him up for them to have a look.
Just wondered if anyone has ever come across this problem

 

[Sparkly Snowdrop]

A friend of mine's horse broke his tail earlier this year! He's fine now and it has healed. They have no idea how he did it, just noticed that he wouldn't let anyone touch it.

 

[joeanne]

To have immobility of the tail is a serious thing, and I would want the vet out ASAP.
He is still able to poo? If so pay attention to his legs and under the dock getting dirty and soiled.
Bruising should not make him unable to move his tail, and would point to something more serious.

 

[cptrayes]

Agree with this. Inability to move the tail can be a sign of a neck injury. The nerves for the back end of the horse are around the outside of the spinal cord bundle as it goes through the neck vertebrae. If he is not pooing easily please call your vet out

I hope it is nothing serious but better safe than sorry. I think I would have him inside and kept quiet tonight just in case if he was mine.

 

[Tangaroo]

Yes he can poo although he does do it down his tail as cant lift it out the way. Eating and drinking fine and sound as a bell when he trots across the field. He is very bright in himself.
Like i said, i have spoken to the vet and they are happy with bute today and see how he is tomorrow. If theres no change he will be going in either tomorrow or wednesday for them to sedate him and examine it.

 

[Irishbabygirl]

I'm not sure I would be 100% happy with the response from your vet, like others have said, could be a break or damage to his back or neck.