spine checks - is this true?

[Nudibranch]

Horse (tb mare) is currently undergoing blood tests and so on to find the cause of her collapsing randomly (have posted previously - thanks to everyone who replied). ANYWAY, am still convinced its her back, as her hindlegs just aren't right, vet just ran his hand down her back and said it was fine!

So was discussing this with yo and he reckons if you run a hard object firmly down the spine the horse will "sag" when you reach the problem part...did this using the edge of a body brush and lo and behold, she did exactly this as I touched the lowest vertebra (just behind the wither where she also happens to have a white patch). So am thinking she may have a problem, the white hairs are obvously from past saddle problems (she is a rescue so no history).

Has anyone else heard of this? Or does it happen to every horse, as an automatic reaction?

 

[TinselRider]

TBH if you press hard enough most horses will sag at some point along their back.....its a sensitive area.

If your still not happy after your vets opinion why not get another vet from a different practise to come in and have a look.

 

[Bosworth]

It is an automatic reflex - as a saddle fitter I look to slide a finger nail down either side of the spine and expect a reflex action from both sides - if I don't then that is an indication that there is a problem. if however you get a flinch or a move to bite then that could indicate a specific painful spot. I would get an equine back specialist out to check as I am not a great believer in most vets ability to assess a bad back

 

[dozzie]

Ask your vet for permission to get a physio or chiropractor to your horse once the bloods have been cleared.

 

[shadowboy]

I was told that movement away is a good sign- a bad sign would be if the horse reacted badly ie jumped into the air or didnt react at all.

 

[dozzie]

Bosworth- (my cat is called Bosworth!!!)

I agree. Dont think vets have much of a clue where backs etc are concerned. I just wish they would accept it!!

As a professional myself, I know I dont know everything. I welcome the advice of people who specialise in one aspect and use it, but have experienced so many who dont.

I think the same applies to the medical/veterinary profession unfortunately.

 

[countess]

Have sent a pm, was it no help?

 

[MichelleLouise]

From past experience i would reccommed you get a specialist back person out 2 check as they know exactly what 2 look for not many vets do.. (although some may)

 

[Nudibranch]

Thanks Countess, am going to see if I can sort something out with my vet i.e. a referral to him!