Remodelling of articular facet joint at the base of neck

[SammyE]

Hi

My 7yo WB mare has recently had surgery for OCD in both her hind hocks she was recovering well but I then noticed that she was being very clumsey and plaiting in front when been riden downhill, she has has xrays and now been diagnosed by the vet for having remodelling of the articular facet joint at the base of the neck (C5-6 and C6-7) (graded 1 out of 5) she has been given steriod injections and I have to bring her back into full time work to rebuild her muscles see whether she gets better or gets worse. Does anyone have any experience in this and what was the outcome?

Many thanks

 

[PercyMum]

I can't really comment as I am not a vet but my mare had arthritic remodelling at the base of her neck with an accompanying bone spur into her spinal column. Sadly, she had to be pts as the spur could have snapped and damged her spinal cord at any time. The remodelling would prevent her from working again as she was losing the sensation in her extremities. She also was very clumsy and you could pull her tail sideways and she would just collapse. She was only 4

I am not saying that is what is wrong with your mare and I suspect that your vet would have advised if there were significant risks or problems. However, I suggest you go back asap and point out her clumsiness if you have not already. And don't ride her until you get the all clear - mine could have killed me as she had no idea what her legs were doing, bless her.

 

[SammyE]

So sorry to hear about your mare many thanks for your response. She is currently under the vet at the moment and they are aware of all her problems. They are hoping with a build up of muscle she may come right but cant be sure. I have to see how she is after 4weeks of her being back in exercise and will be lunging her in the pessoa and doing pole work to try and build up the topline muscle. Fingers crossed it will work!

 

[PercyMum]

Thanks - I was destroyed when I lost her. She was amazingly talented (even at that age) and was just fabulous at everything.

I really hope you have better news with your mare. Just please do be careful and watch out for behavioural changes. When mine went, she went quickly and she kept injuring herself and nearly crushed me when she fell over. So just stay safe!