Off the Track to Eventer

Patient:

5 year old thoroughbred retired from racing

History:

Star finished his racing career at the age of 4 after the trainer realised he would be far happier off the race track (… he would rather stay at the float eating rather than running around the track!)

Goals:

Star’s new owner is looking to Event with him! Her previous. Horse suffered from Sacroiliac Joint Disease and has spent 2 years managing her (now retired) horse’s pain. She was very dedicated to her previous horse and saw the value in Physiotherapy with her previous horse. She wants her new horse to be pain free and love his new job. She wants his body to be prepared for what she wants to do with him.

Physiotherapy Assessment:

Star presented with no lameness and happy in himself. Taking measurements of his body, it was found that his left hind limb was much stronger and had more muscle compared to his right (not uncommon in racehorses, since a lot of the work they do in WA is done on a counterclockwise track).

He had myofascial tightness through his left hindlimb and lower back, as well as reduced range through his right shoulder and neck.

Management:

Physiotherapy treatment consisted of myofascial massage and mobilisations to address the affected areas. Spinal stability and strength exercises were given to address muscular asymmetries. Similar to humans, horses take approx 8-12 weeks to show significant strength gains. During this time, Star was seen fortnightly to address the myofascial tightness to prevent pain and dysfunction.

Outcome:

Star and his owner are now a year down the track and are planning to enter their first event at the beginning of the season! Star is reviewed every 6 weeks and loves his Physio visits.