Trapped nerve in back

[Foxford]

Just a quickie!

Interested in viewing a horse who had a trapped nerve a few months back. He appears to be recovering really well. Doesn't really bother me as I don't think it will reccur. Anyone have any experience on this one?

Am I being naive?!

Thanks!!

 

[hollyzippo]

Presumably it has been treated by either a vet or chiro/physio?
I would contact them and speak to them about it if owner is happy for you to do so.

Professionally I would say shouldnt be a problem if its had correct treatment and massage and/or exercises to strengthen up the area.

Do you know where exactly?

 

[Foxford]

It is just in front of his hindquarters apparently. So not under the saddle area, which I presume would be a plus? It was probably caused by him rolling in the stable.

Was treated by vet initially, he advised turnout and no riding untill swelling etc went away. Back woman has visited twice and he is now working on the lunge everyday to strengthen him up. The back woman said she didn't think she needed to see him again, as long as all the exercises she recommened were continued he would make a full recovery.

I just feel a bit silly, as to me I can see his potential and think he will be perfect for me. But part of me thinks that other people must think I am mad looking at a horse that will not be able to be ridden for at least 6 weeks!!

The seller has been very honest about all this, and I would probably get an independent back specialist out to look at him before I make a decision.

Thanks very much for your advice.

 

[hollyzippo]

Doesnt sound like too much of a problem as long as hes responding well to the lunging/exercises and you keep on top of having back check ups. Maybe 3 month intervals then aim for 6 if it doesnt re-occur?

Has he atrophied on 1 side. ie is the affected side losing muscle? If so that obviously takes a bit longer to build up but correct lunging and then schooling (usually worked more on weak rein) should help a lot.

Good luck

- if he suits you thats the main thing!

 

[Klaudette]

Horses dont really get' trapped' nerves, nor do they get vertebral displacements/subluxations (that can be corrected by manipulation).
I would be very wary about purchasing this horse. Getting him insured could be a problem. I dont think I would be able to 'pass'/recommend him at a vetting...
How old is he?
What caused this 'trapped nerve?
What diagnostic work-up has been done?
Has he seen a specialist.
What will he be used for?
Obviously it is your decision, please be careful, this horse could cost you a lot- both in money and emotions. Make sure you know exactly what his problem was before you purchase!

 

[siennamum]

Sienna fell on her nose a couple of years ago and has since had repeated incidents of what the vet and chiropractor describe as a trapped nerve in her shoulders/withers. It causes a change in gait which isn't lameness but stops me competing her until it is treated again. She has to be treated a couple of times a year for it and I'm hoping it will go away for ever but not looking hopeful.

 

[FREESTYLER]

As with Klaudette, I believe that the spinal column cannot get "trapped nerves" because there is so little movement of the spine having said that I presume the area you talk about is sacroilliac area where most of the movement is. I was told this by the Dean at Cambridge University when I had a problem with my horses spine and if doesnt know then I dont know who will!!!

Take care about buying a horse with a problem back... I have been there with my older horse... it is not fun,

and in many cases the back problem can be secondary to a further problem lower down. This obviously is only my opinion based on what has happened to me and a couple of people I know.

 

[Foxford]

Thanks for all the advice everyone. I decided not to go for him, too much of a risk! And I really can't afford to walk into that sort of situation. I will work hard to pay for the keep of this horse and want him to be sound.

I was interested in another horse but when I looked closely at his pictures he had the longest pasterns in the world. Looks like I can pick them...