lower back / butt tightness in horse (again)

[dilbert]

Frankie has some tightness in his butt and lower back soreness/tightness following some saddle problems.

He's had chiro and EMRT who recommended a change of saddle (done) and then to start riding again to see how he gets on. I'm a very anxious/paranoid first time owner but both therapists had the view that there was nothing overly serious going on and starting work again was the best thing to do.

Can anyone recommend any exercises/massage techniques/ways of slowly bringing him back into work? He's now had a month off and various treatments and also had his teeth sorted.

The chiro is coming back out next month.

 

[girlmoose]

An equine physiotherapist may be able to suggest some things to do. I have been advised with exercise such as stretching out legs to release tension or stiffness and stretching sideways with the help of carrots, but they are difficult to describe so asking a physio to show you may help!

It sounds like me will be fine though, when you bring him back into work just do it very gradually (just walk work at first and gradually introduce trot work.) I terms of riding make sure you encourage and allow him to stretch down to losen any stiffness, particular at end and beginning of ride.

Hope this helps a bit, I know it's not much. It is scary when you first own a horse, but if his saddle now fits and he is well there is nothing to worry about!
Good luck

 

[dilbert]

thank you

I've emailed a registered physio so hopefully will be able to speak to her at least and maybe get her out. I'm just worried about making him worse. He had the dentist yesterday and was definitely tighter today although cavorting in the field with his pals doesn't help lol