Locking Stifle in older horse

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Turtlebay69

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Ok I'll first tell you about the horse -

14.2hh 20 years old. Workload - Hacks out 3/4 times a week, for around 2-3 hours each time, walk and trot roads canter in fields, pop a few logs ect. Lost condition currently so starting with some linseed along with spillers weight gain senior and chaff, also has veteran supplement and garlic in feed. Always great energy wise never really flagging behind. He lives out.

Today he he had a massage along with saddle check. Saddle check all ok but massage revealed some things that I was before not aware of. Lots of knots, but two worrying lumps that the lady said are most likely past injury, I've had him since 5 but she said could be anything. No injuries I have ever been aware of. But - I mentioned that he is stiff behind when I watched him being ridden. She then checked for herself and told me he has locking stifle on both sides. I now notice it, and I'm worried about what to do. Do I continue at 20 with what I'm doing, do I retire him, what do I do? I'm worried it will get worse and I'd never forgive myself if I should have stopped working him.

Advice if possible please!
 
A massage person, whatever her qualifications, cannot diagnose locking stifles or anything else really, only a vet can diagnose, he may have locking stifles but in order to have a proper diagnosis and treatment get your vet in to assess him and see what he thinks.
 
He could have issues with his stifles but I think it more likely that his hocks are the problem and the ligaments in his stifles are weak due to something going on elsewhere, I could be totally wrong but it is the hocks that usually cause problems in older horses.
Good luck with the vet, there a lot can be done to help with whatever the problem is, if he is full of energy and keen to work the chances are he can continue to do so with a little help, exercise is usually of benefit to keep things moving and ligaments strong.
 
Agree with avet check, this will give you a peace of mind! try corn oil mixed in his feed for weight gain my old horse is 23 and works wonders she is so shiney and fab for putting on weight xxxx
 
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