Education Zone

Stretching your horse is an easy way to maintain good muscle health. Stretches should only be carried out once the muscles have been warmed up. After exercise is the best time to stretch your horse, alternatively using the Equilibrium Massage Pad and the Massage Mitt on key areas, such as the neck, shoulders and quarters can help to warm the muscles up. Stretching a cold muscle increases the risk of damage to the muscle fibres as they are less elastic and can tear more easily. Stretching regularly has many benefits, including: Increased flexibility – which can be associated with an increased stride length Help maintain healthy muscles, tendons, ligaments and fascia Improved joint ROM(Range Of Motion) Promote body awareness Help improve general posture Listed below are 10 simple stretches that you can do with your horse on a regular basis to help keep them supple though their top line, encourage a good stride length and improve neck flexion. Passive Stretches Fore limb Protraction Pick up the horses’ foot as normal and then gradually draw the limb forward supporting the fetlock joint and flexor tendons. Hold for 30 seconds and repeat 3 times on each leg. If your horse is snatching the leg back, reduce the amount of stretch and build up gradually each day. This will stretch the triceps, lattisimus dorsi and other muscles involved with forelimb movement. Hind limb Protraction Draw the horses’ hind limb forwards toward the forelimb fetlock; make sure you keep the leg in a straight line rather than pulling the limb away from the body. Again, hold for 30 seconds and repeat 3 times on each leg. This will stretch the hamstring muscle group. Lateral Extension of Spine Place one hand on the wither and the palm of your other hand on the point of hip. GENTLY place pressure on the point of hip in a straight line towards the back of the horse. Hold for 30seconds and repeat 3 times on each side. Some horses may find this one more difficult than others, take your time and increase the stretch slowly. If your horse tries to move away, ask for less stretch. If the muscles of the back are twitching hold the stretch and don’t ask for any more until this has stopped. Severe twitching may suggest your horse is in a bit more discomfort and would benefit from a once over by your vet. Back lift Run your finger tips down the crease in the muscles on your horses’ hind quarters, to encourage you horse to tilt their pelvis and lift through the lumbosacral region. ‘Tickle’ the area to try and maintain the lift for 15 seconds, repeat 3 times. Don’t try this one if you know your horse can be a bit handy with their back legs! Baited Stretches of the Head and Neck These baited stretches are really easy to achieve using the high value, low sugar treats, Crunchits. This way you don’t need to worry about how many treats your horse is having. With each of these stretches try to maintain the position for 10-15 seconds before giving the treat and repeat this 3 times on each side. Maintain smooth movements without any snatching or grabbing; if your horse is having to try and grab it may mean you’re asking too much too soon, reduce the stretch and build up gradually. Try to ensure your horse is stood as square as possible for all these stretches 1. Take the crunchit between the front legs close to the ground. This will stretch the muscles of the neck and back that make up the top line. 2. Take the crunchit between the horses’ front legs, ensuring he doesn’t start to twist at the poll. This will encourage greater flexion of the neck muscles, the poll, and cervical vertebrae. 3. Bring the crunchit around to the side to encourage lateral flexion. Aim for the horses’ shoulder. 4. From lateral flexion bring the crunchit down to ground level to stretch the muscles closer to the wither – these muscles are particularly important for self carriage. 5. Take the crunchit round to the flank to get an even greater lateral stretch. 6. Finally bring the crunchit forwards, trying to keep the neck horizontal and in line with the back to get full neck extension. Place your other hand on his shoulder to stop him from taking a step forwards and cheating!

If your horse has had a diagnosis of hock arthritis, there are many ways in which we can help the horse continue a working career and maintain a comfortable life. Adjustments may be needed in their husbandry and exercise programmes, but regular veterinary surgeon and complimentary therapist’s treatments will help to control any associated pain and discomfort. This article aims to give an overview on simple things you can implement into your daily routine to help with the management and associated problems with hock arthritis. As explained in the previous article The Horses Hock | Common Problems, Diagnosis and Treatment the hock is a very complex joint, which plays an important part in the performance horse. When problems arise in the hock joint the horse alters their gait to compensate, trying to avoid or minimise any pain or discomfort due to the arthritis. This results in compensatory hypertension and hypertrophy (overdevelopment) in the associated muscles, tendons and ligaments that are now having different stresses and strains applied to them. Due to a possible reduction in hock flexion, and also in an attempt to reduce concussive forces being applied directly through the hock joint, horses often compensate by circumducting (an outward swing) the affected limb during the swing phase of the stride cycle. This results in the muscles on both the medial (inside) and lateral (outside) aspects of the limb having different forces applied to them which can therefore become tight and overdeveloped. We also often see an increase in tension in the lumbar paravertebral region, gluteal region and hamstrings (see image below) – particularly the semimembranosus and semitendinosus muscles of the hind limb. Again, this is due to the horse trying to cushion and reduce the impact from the affected limb(s) striking the ground. The affects of which will often be seen in the ridden horse by being tense in the back, behind the saddle and having a shortened stride of the hind limb. There are many ways in which we can help support and maintain as near normal function as possible within these structures to help prevent further problems. Maintain Core Strength Horses will naturally try to limit and reduce the amount of pain or discomfort felt from an injury or joint disease by off-loading the affected limb. You may see them resting the affected limb more frequently. This off loading over time will have knock on effects on the core musculature which will affect the posture of the horse, and possibly lead to secondary issues. We can help maintain core strength and suppleness by performing baited stretches as part of our daily routine. Stand the horse square and slowly ask them to follow a treat around to the girth area either side, then the flank either side, outside the front fetlock either side, to the chest, between the front legs and then stretching up to the sky. It is always best to perform these exercises when the muscles are warm, so it is advised to do them after exercise, once tack is removed, but before the horse has cooled too much. If your horse is currently not in work then the muscles can be warmed by massaging the area prior to stretching. Click here for a more detailed guide on baited stretches. Massage Massage can be beneficial to help maintain suppleness within the muscles and prevent excessive tension, which can result in altered gait patterns. Regular application of massage, using effleurage – gentle stroking techniques, or petrissage a deeper kneading technique, paying particular attention to the lumbar paravertebral and gluteal muscle groups (muscles running along either side of the spine from behind the saddle region and over the rump) and the hamstring muscle groups (those running down the back of the hind limb and down to the hock). The Equilibrium Massage Mitt or Massage Mitt Hotspot can be particularly useful for massaging these areas. Manual massage can be tough on your hands if you are not conditioned to it, and these products can take away any worry of not knowing the exact techniques to use. The heat from the Massage Mitt Hotspot is very comforting for sore muscles and could also be applied to the hock joint itself before exercise to help warm the area and relieve initial stiffness. Massage can be performed regularly, if time permits, and if carried out after exercise as part of a routine it can help prevent tension building up. 20-30 minutes should be spent on either side of the horse 2-3 times a week (or more if time allows) to help maintain soft and supple muscles. If you find your horse is particularly uncomfortable when you are massaging a specific area it is always advisable to contact your veterinary surgeon or therapist for advice. For many of us, time on the yard is precious, especially through the winter months. The Equilibrium Massage Pad and the Massage Pad Heatsense provide an easy to use, effective massage (massage & heat from the Heatsense) for the muscles of the back and can be a useful tool to help aid the warm-up process before you ride. One of the biggest benefits of these products is that you can carry on other yard chores whilst your horse has their massage. Poles The use of pole work to increase range of motion within the hind limb can be very useful, but needs to be performed with care, your horse’s ability to perform the exercise correctly and being able to move over the poles without knocking them should be taken into consideration when deciding to use poles as part of the rehabilitation. Your Veterinary Surgeon or therapist will be able to advise you more if pole exercises are suitable for your horse. Something as simple as placing a couple of poles at intervals on your walk to and from the field will help to encourage your horse to use the limb through a greater range of motion. When using poles, it is important to take into consideration your horse’s fitness and ability – keep it simple. A single pole walked over cleanly can be much more beneficial than a grid of poles which your horse struggles to perform. Start simple and increase the number of poles over time. Try to always have someone on the floor watching your horse’s movement over the poles, we aim to have a regular stride length and equal limb flexion / extension through the pole configuration and for any horse diagnosed with hock arthritis I prefer to work with the poles in straight lines, rather than on a curve so we keep limb loading as equal as possible. Changes to Management When manging a horse suffering from hock arthritis alterations to their husbandry and exercise regimes may be required to help achieve the best results, with regular assessments from your veterinary surgeon, therapist and farrier the best outcomes can be achieved. You should avoid long periods of restricted mobility and try and keep exercise levels regular throughout the week, avoiding overworking on hard or deep surfaces and be conscious of ground conditions and the terrain you’re working your horse on – harder surfaces and hills will increase the forces applied through the affected joints. As with any Equine injury, ailment or disease if you are unsure at any point about what is appropriate for your horse we advise you refer back to your Veterinary Surgeon or Musculoskeletal Therapist for advice. Thank you to Catherine for writing this article: Catherine MarshallVeterinary PhysiotherapistAdvCert VPhys DipAVN(surgical)RVN Cert Clin Ed Acc Midx MRAMP, MIRVAP

Christine East, a McTimoney Animal Practitioner, shares her expertise on how to care for your cold-backed horse. An increasing number of horses are being diagnosed as ‘cold-backed’, and the problem is much more common than many horse owners think. So what does it actually mean, and how can it be treated? What does ‘cold-backed’ mean? The term ‘cold-backed’ is used to describe a horse displaying symptoms of a sensitive or painful back. These symptoms can range from very mild, such as discomfort when the girth is tightened, to more serious, lasting until the horse has warmed up and the muscles are relaxed. McTimoney Animal Practitioner, Christine East has treated many cold-backed horses. “There are lots of different interpretations of the term ‘cold-backed’, and it can be used to cover a range of different symptoms,” she says. “However, it is important to remember that every horse is an individual, so they may display different signs to other horses with the same problem.” What to look out for Christine stresses that it is common for horse owners to worry about confusing a cold back with their horse’s behaviour towards activities, such as tacking up and grooming. However, there are definite signs to look out for, which include: Soreness or sensitivity to grooming over the backReacting to the saddle, such as dipping or bridging the back when it is put onDiscomfort when the girth is tightenedRefusal or reluctance to let you mount from the groundStiffness through the back during the first few minutes of work What is the cause of a cold back? Christine suggests that one of the underlying problems is evolutionary. “Horses didn’t evolve to carry people on their backs and compensate for the extra weight. This means they can develop sensitive nerve endings or a misalignment in the spine as a result. Some of the most common causes of a cold back include: pressure from a poorly fitting saddle; aggravation of previous injuries to back muscle; or problems with your horse’s teeth or feet, which cause them to readjust their posture. Another cause, which I think is often overlooked, is the posture and position of the rider,” says Christine. “I often have calls from owners whose horses all seem to have developed the same back problem and it is caused by the horse having to compensate for the rider’s bad posture. When having your horse treated, it is sometimes worth seeing a back specialist yourself!" Treating a cold back As there are such a range of symptoms for a cold back, it is important to consult your vet as a first port of call, who can rule out any injury or more serious problems. They can then refer your horse to a physiotherapist, chiropractor, or McTimoney practitioner, as necessary. “Symptoms associated with a cold back are not usually too difficult to treat,” says Christine. “Most treatments work to relieve spasms or misalignments in the spine, which cause a pull in the surrounding muscle tissue and result in soreness.” When treating a cold back, it is also advisable to have your horse’s feet and teeth checked, to ensure that there aren’t any problems here that are causing knock-on effects. Prevention is key There are certain preventative measures that can be taken to help stop your horse developing back problems in the future. Have your saddle checked annually, because a horse’s shape can change throughout the year and may not be the same as when the saddle was fitted. Always warm up properly before exercise and remember to cool down when you have finished – this allows your horse’s muscles to adjust to your weight and avoid any damage. If your horse is particularly sensitive, tack up and walk him around for five minutes before mounting – this will give the muscles a head start and ensure he is comfortable when you are mounting. In addition, always use a mounting block rather than mounting from the ground, as this can place extra stress on the back. Often, when a horse won’t stand still for mounting, it is an indication that he finds it uncomfortable, so take care as you get on. When schooling, ensure you do sufficient work on both reins – this will benefit the whole body, not just the back, and will help your horse to remain flexible through both sides of his body. A cold back is treatable “The good thing to remember is that the problems associated with a cold back are almost always treatable,” says Christine. As with everything though, prevention is better than cure, so taking good care of your horse’s back is important, and will help him stay fit and healthy and able to perform at his best.

What are electrolytes? Present in small amounts, electrolytes are positively charged ions that are dissolved in the blood and the fluid that exists between cells and sweat. The principal electrolytes are sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium and magnesium. How do horses get their electrolytes? Most horses receive most of their daily electrolytes from forage.  Calcium and phosphorus are also commonly added to compound feeds and mixes.  However salt can be low in forages and are not added in high levels into compounds.  Hence extra salt is routinely offered as licks or in the feed. Horses on low forage diets, such as those receiving a lot of hard feed, or those on restricted diets due to being good-doers, will have a lower electrolyte supply than horses with good fibre levels in their diet. Many working horses receive added electrolytes as a supplemented to their diet. Why are electrolytes important? Electrolytes are responsible for the correct function of nerves and muscles.  They also help maintain normal hydration and are integral in maintaining the functioning of the digestive system, and the other vital organs. Sub-optimal electrolyte status can lead to muscle problems and poor performance.  Since electrolytes cannot be stored in the body, the amount available to the horse is dependent on electrolyte intake compared to natural losses through sweat, urine and faeces. Electrolytes and sweating Sweating removes heat generated by muscles during exercise.  A fit horse efficiently removes heat from where it is not wanted in the muscles, out to the skin where it is lost through sweat- where the process of evaporation from the skin cools the horse. Equine sweat is hypertonic – that it is contains more salts than internal body fluids – which means that a sweating horse loses electrolytes as well as water.  Typically a working horse can lose 7-8 litres in an exercise bout. The amount of sweat produced by an individual depends on temperature, workload, temperament and stage of fitness. One litre of horse sweat contains around 3.5g of sodium, 6g of chloride, 1.2g of potassium and 0.1g of calcium I litre of sweat is estimated to dissipate heat from 1 –2 minutes of extreme work or about 5 minutes of sub-maximal work, summer or winter  When do horses need extra electrolytes? Whenever a horse works hard, summer or winter. Electrolyte use in the days before a competition will stimulate water intake such that the horse enters the competition fully hydrated. (long term mega-dosing is wasteful as any excesses cannot be stored) Before during or after travelling: offering water or an isotonic solution every couple of hours on long journeys should help avoid unnecessary fluid* and/or electrolyte deficits before the competition has begun. Before and during moderate to intense work: Research has shown that correct administration of good quality electrolytes can increase the time it take for a horse to fatigue by nearly 23%. (On the day of competition or exercise bout, the final offer of electrolytes should be made together with water, at least 4 hours before exercise.) Horses on low or restricted forage diets (i.e. less than 30% of total diet as forage) will receive a diet inherently low in electrolytes.. Equally a new forage source could be markedly different to the previous source, and cause problems.

Salt, electrolytes and gastric ulcers The use of electrolytes in relation to gastric ulcers has been mooted since a study in endurance horses showed those receiving a concentrated electrolyte paste once per hour for eight hours showed higher rate of gastric lesions than those receiving a placebo.  Extreme use such as this is not routinely recommended.   It is necessary to replenish lost salt and electrolytes after sweating, because sweat contains both water and electrolytes; sweating cools the horse by the process of the evaporation of water from the skin, but in losing water the horse also loses electrolytes, which must then be replenished through the diet. Ensuring a sound base of forage in the diet is essential – forages themselves are a source of electrolytes, and they also create a reservoir of water bound with the fibre in the hindgut that acts as a fluid reservoir when sweating. Supplementary electrolyte requirements are highly individual, dependent on the duration and intensity of the workload, the core ration as well as the environmental conditions.  Electrolyte tips: Maximise forage intakes where possible.  If travelling or on restricted forage diets consider offering forage in a  way that slows consumption such as double walled hay nets or the use of a forage block. Consider providing salt blocks at home; Always follow the supplement manufacturer’s recommendations for use Always offer fresh water when administering electrolytes Never administer electrolytes on their own into an empty stomach – try mixing them with some type of fibre – e.g. a small amount of alfalfa

Jack Dawson – Heart Stopper Jack Dawson retired sound from racing at the age of 10 in autumn 2007 after 71 races. During Jack’s career he won eleven races, nine on the flat and two over hurdles. John Berry of Beverley House Stables, his Newmarket Trainer, commented that Jack was a versatile and genuine character, winning races over a variety of distances and conditions. However, Jack did have a few setbacks during his eight years of racing.  These included sarcoids as 2 year old, a fractured pelvis in 2002 and a fractured cannon bone in 2005. Jack is owned by Equilibrium’s Margaret Donnelly and Paul Wright.  Originally part of a racing syndicate, they took Jack home with them to Buckinghamshire at the end of his racing career. After Jack retired from racing he was given three months of rest to get used to a new way of life on a small yard. Margaret Donnelly said “As he was just 10 years old we felt that he could be retrained as a riding horse.  He was just too young to retire completely and he still wanted to be in the centre of things. Without a job to do Jack gets up to all sorts of mischief including opening field gates to let all the horses out and locking me in the feed room for several hours”. Sensitive & Sore Racing puts a large amount of strain on a horse’s back, broken in at a young age to compete, race horses can become rigid and hollow in their way of going. Jack was very sensitive and wasn’t keen to have anyone touch his back with a new saddle so after Jack’s rest he was brought slowly back into work. Jack happily wore the Equilibrium Magnetic back pad underneath his stable blanket every night and over time both the Equilibrium Magnetic back pad and the Equilibrium Massage pad have helped him significantly. The Equilibrium Massage Pad was used on Jack almost everyday. He always has a session before he is ridden, helping warm up his back considerably before anyone gets on. (You can tell if Jack hasn’t had his massage!) Both of these products have helped Jack’s back noticeably, aiding him to become more supple in many movements, being physically able to engage his hindquarters and stay in a more consistent outline. John Berry says Jack’s old trainer, John Berry, commented that “Jack’s toughness is shown by the statistics of his career, which lasted nine seasons and comprised 71 races, 11 of which he won.  However, the essence of his toughness was his ability to bounce back from setbacks; he had a few injuries along the way, some of which would have been career-ending to a lesser horse, but each time he made a complete recovery and returned to action with renewed enthusiasm.  Most horses would lose the will to compete after setbacks such as these, but his love of competing never diminished and he remained as fiercely competitive in his final season as he had been at the outset. All in all, he was just a very tough, professional and very genuine racehorse.  He wasn’t a champion and didn’t have the potential to be one, but over the years he probably over-performed because of his immense fighting spirit and determination to compete and to win.” A start of a new career Endurance rider, Lorna Kidson, met Jack a few years ago. Lorna says, “I was asked by Margaret if I thought their ex racehorse Jack Dawson might be suitable for endurance. With TLC and a lot of time and patience, Margaret and dressage rider Laura Plant had re-schooled him and even done a few dressage tests. Whilst Jack was such a willing boy that he completed his tests and completed them very well, Margaret didn’t really feel that he enjoyed it but thought he was not quite ready just to be a field ornament! At his initial events,  it took quite a bit of patience and calmness to get Jack to settle as he thought he was going racing and was very suspicious of the vetting and the farrier checks. He is very sensitive and is wary of strangers.  His body is covered in old sarcoid scars and this may have made him more cautious about being touched. The use of carrots however to distract him worked a treat until he got used to strange people touching him. We also practiced at the yard with getting different people handling him.  He did very well in his first season – racking up several Grade 1s.2010 was a successful year for him, as Jack upgraded to Advanced. He won both a performance formula class and a Rufus points class and he consistently got a grade 1 or 2. He is fast on course as he has such a huge stride; he happily trots along at well in excess of 20kph. Unfortunately he bruised his feet quite badly when he lost both front shoes whilst at Lindum Spirit Endurance Ride and we decided to do quite a bit of remedial work to sort his feet out.  This meant he was turned away for the rest of the year.  2011/2012 In 2011, and at the age of 14, Jack came back with renewed vigour.  He completed four events and was graded in all of them. This resulted in Jack winning the runner-up prize for the South Essex Insurance Brokers and Retraining of Racehorses’ Elite Performance Award for Endurance, a fantastic achievement. Winning ROR Endurance Award 2012 was another year off, with Jack recovering from a leg injury but 2013 was to be a better year.  Contesting the ROR Elite Performance Award again, Jack won by a mile with 1605 points.  This resulted in him taking part in a ROR parade at Ascot Racecourse on King George Day – almost more than he could handle.  Needless to say he was more than excited to be back on a racecourse! Happy Retirement In 2014 Jack stared the season aimed for a cup race but Lorna felt that his heart just wasn’t in it.  The decision was made to retire him completely and he now spends his days happily alongside his sister, Jenny Dawson and the other Equilibrium horses. Margaret says, “Jack is a sensitive and quirky horse but he is also very genuine and tries his heart out. Even when he is exhausted at the end of a race, if you ask, he will dig deep for you and find that inner core of toughness that makes Jack such a unique person. To have been so long in racing (71 races and 8 years) it is a testimony to Jack’s big heart that he has completely adjusted to a new way of life and is being so successful at a new sport. It is a privilege to have such a wonderful character in our lives. His resilience, his enthusiasm and his ability to overcome problems is a lesson to us humans.”

By Dr Katy Taylor,De Montfort University Head Shaking is not a single condition One of the most frustrating things about headshaking is that each case is unique. So, what causes headshaking in one horse may not be the cause in another. It’s important to recognise that headshaking is the symptom of a problem with the horse rather than being the problem itself, although it is often treated as such. There are over 60 known causes of headshaking, including ear, eye and respiratory problems, which makes a veterinary visit all the more important. Simply assuming your horse is an untreatable head shaker may cause more harm. Likewise, be wary of products that claim to cure all head shakers. Headshaking is not a behavioural or management problem Because headshaking often only arises when the horse is ridden, it is commonly attributed to tack problems, bad riding, or resistance. However, studies in the US and UK have shown that around 50% of head shakers also show symptoms at rest. So, whilst exercise always worsens the symptoms, most owners find that changes in tack or schooling have little effect. Researchers at De Montfort University and the University of Lincoln investigated head shakers and non‑head shakers and found no important differences in their diet, use or turnout. The relative unpredictability of the condition and symptoms suggest that the headshaking is not a behavioural one unlike weaving or nodding. Not all headshaking is caused by sunlight (photic headshaking) Head shaking has often been attributed to a reaction to sunlight, but whilst this may be so for some, especially animals in more sunny places like California, many European head shakers seem relatively unaffected by light. Riding indoors or at dusk can still bestow benefits other than by restricting exposure to light so the best test for the photic form of this problem is to carefully cover the horse’s face whilst exercising. Headshaking is not horse hay fever The seasonal nature of headshaking (50% of head shakers only have symptoms from March to October), together with the signs of nasal irritation, has led many to believe that headshaking is a respiratory disorder similar to human hay fever. However, vets remain sceptical because, in general, hay fever medication is not very effective. In addition, vets rarely find clinical signs of an allergic reaction. Although headshaking may be in response to particles in and around the nose, an allergic reaction may not necessarily be occurring. So what does cause headshaking? Given there are a variety of causes, a large proportion of head shakers are thought to be suffering from some kind of pain originating within the head. Nerve pain (neuralgia) has long been considered, ie. damage to the sensory nerves of the head, which may have resulted from physical damage to the nerves or following infection from certain viruses. The involuntary headshaking movement could be a response to the misfiring of a faulty nerve and the rubbing of the face in an attempt to relieve the discomfort caused. Facial neuralgia could account for the general hypersensitivity around the muzzle that many head shakers experience, particularly to rain, snow and wind. In some cases, exercise or particles may be causing the blood vessels in the nose to swell and ‘squash’ the nerve, causing it to misfire. The reasons why some horses head shake and others don’t are not yet known. Frequently the onset of their problem has been traced back to the beginning of the horse’s working life so the many changes that occur within the horse or in its environment during this time may hold part of the answer. Because the problem is often not apparent until the horse is exercised, headshaking could have arisen earlier when the horse was very young but has lain undetected until the horse was backed. Future research into how we can prevent headshaking in foals may be fortuitous once we know more about the causes of headshaking.

Acupuncture can be used as a complementary veterinary treatment for horses, and other animals, amongst other things it can provide pain relief and generally improve a horses’ well-being. Treatment involves stimulation of specific points of the body using very fine, solid needles. It causes inhibition of pain pathways and stimulates the release of pain relieving chemicals in the brain and spinal cord. Acupuncture is an act of veterinary surgery and so can only be performed by a vet. This stimulation can generate many responses within an individual. It can affect muscle, the circulatory, digestive, reproductive and urinary systems, as well as anti-body and hormone production. Conditions which can respond to acupuncture include: back pain, both acute and chronic; lameness – tendonitis, sesamoiditis, laminitis and navicular disease; COPD; chronic gastrointestinal disease (unresolved diarrhoea or constipation); post viral fatigue; paralysis or muscle spasm; behavioural problems and infertility. A course of treatment usually consists of weekly treatments for a minimum of four weeks then gradually extending the time between treatments to a maintenance level which is different for each individual. Chess Valley Equine use a Western Scientific approach to acupuncture treatments and find that where it is used, either alone or in combination with other therapies, the results are very good. Unfortunately there are a small number of individuals and conditions that will not respond to acupuncture. Please visit their website for all the services they can offer:  www.chessvalleyequine.com

Whatever your discipline, it is essential to take good care of your horse’s joints to prevent future problems occurring. Most horse owners know that regular care of legs, feet and back can help prevent future problems and prolong their horse’s working life. However, many overlook proper joint care, something that could impact on all of these areas. Daily activities and everyday life causes wear and tear and places stress on joints, so being aware of potential problems early is important. Ongoing joint care can help minimise the risk of problems or injury, aid fitness and improve all-round performance. Joints explained A horse’s joints are designed to absorb shock and bear the weight of the body, while helping them to move easily and without friction. There are three main types of joints: – Cartilaginous – these joints have limited movement, such as spinal column and pelvis – Fibrous – fixed joints, such as the skull – Synovial – these are the moveable joints, such as the fetlocks, stifles, hocks and knees As the most active joints in a horse’s body, synovial joints are also the most likely to incur injuries or problems. Each end of the bone is covered with a lubricated cartilage, which absorbs the forces placed on the joint as the horse moves, and it is when this lubrication is affected that friction can cause joints to wear as a result. How are they affected? Problems usually occur when joint damage happens faster than repair, and there are many ways in which a horse’s joints can be affected. Although care and consideration go some way to protecting from unnecessary deterioration, age and general movement will always cause wear and tear. Conformation is also key – the better a horse’s conformation, the more balanced they will be, so the less impact will be placed on the joints. Poor conformation can exacerbate joint problems, as it more stress is placed on compensating joints, causing more wear and tear. Fitness, diet, foot condition and type of work can also play a part in general joint condition. Work on hard or rough ground can affect the movable synovial joints in particular, as it creates extra shock and impact. Things to look out for Horse’s can suffer from many different types of joint injury or problem, and treatment can range from massage and hydro-therapy to intra-articular medication (the injection of a drug into the joint), depending on the seriousness. As part of the daily routine, it is important to keep an eye on joints – as you would the feet and back – and look out for any abnormalities. Signs can include lameness, heat or swelling and pain on movement or flexion. In these cases it is important to consult your vet who can advise on what the problems are, and the best course of treatment. Prevention is better than cure When it comes to joints, prevention is better than cure, so it is important to be aware of what causes them extra stress, and how this can be minimised. Warming up and cooling down after exercise is essential, as it helps keep joints supple and reduces the chance of damage or friction. Competitions do have an impact, so if you are competing, be aware of the ground condition – hard ground or rougher terrain than your horse is used to will place more stress on joints. Leaving time enough time for the horse to rest after strenuous exercise or competition will allow them to recover and reduce the chance of lasting problems. When schooling, gradually help your horse build up a resistance on different surfaces, this will help protect from injury, keep joints supple, and improve condition in the long run. What’s on the market? There are a wide range of supplements available, designed specifically to benefit a horse’s joints. These can be used to support existing conditions or problems, or just to help maintain and protect healthy joints, and are manufactured by an array of equine brands. Using protective boots is also very important, especially when competing. They give protection to legs and joints, by absorbing impact and concussion, and providing extra support. Every horse is different Although there is no way to prevent general wear and tear on your horse’s joints, there are effective ways to reduce it. Every horse is different, so it is important to look at cases individually, and help your horse build up joint resistance slowly. Conformation, age and workload all play a part in joint condition, and while these are factors that can’t be changed, others can. Proper care will ensure joints are kept in the best condition possible, increase stamina, and ultimately help prolong your horse’s working life.

In my opinion the Equilibrium Magnetic Chaps are the unsung hero of the Equilibrium Range. My horses tend to wear them more over the winter months as they are spending a bit more time in the stable and long periods of turnout can be tricky in the unpredictable winter weather. The boots are a snug and soft fit and we tend to leave them on overnight as there’s no fear of them slipping or causing rubs. I tend to use the magnet boots mainly on my more advanced horses as it helps maintain bloodflow to the legs. They are also useful for any general knocks or bumps, and the magnets are all moveable so you can target specific areas.  About Daisy: Daisy is a talented young dressage rider based in Hertfordshire. Since starting British Dressage competition in 2012 , Daisy has won 7 British Dressage National Titles as well as the Pony Club Open Dressage National title. Latest Highlights include: Selected onto The British Equestrian Federation Young Professionals Programme supported by Sport England. 1st Keysoe Premier League in the PSG riding Affinity Bay, qualifying directly for the British Dressage Summer Nationals. 3rd place at the Pet Plan Inter I National Championships riding Affinity Bay.

About Mikey is an 11-year-old Irish Sports Horse, owned by Laura Szuca since 2014. They compete in showing and dressage, although Mikey hacks regularly and jumps from time to time. Mikey is prone to filled legs, especially after working hard and in the mornings after being stabled overnight. He is also at a prime age for arthritis, and like most horses with a bit of mileage – can start his ridden sessions a bit stiff, particularly in winter. Laura says: “If I am honest, I wasn’t sure if the magnetic therapy chaps would work. Were they just a fad, and yet another way to spend my hard-earned cash on my horse? I have been using them now for over a month and so feel I have given them a fair trial to see if they could make a difference to my horse, Mikey – an 11-year-old ISH with a pretty busy life. More and more recently his legs have been swelling up overnight, and he is now at a prime age for arthritis. Having read up on the Equilibrium magnetic chaps, and having used some of their other products before that I liked, I decided to purchase some. They can be used on front and back legs (I purchased a pair for both) and they fit well, one thing I really like about the product is that you can move the magnets to where you want them, which means if you think you have a problem area somewhere in the leg you can just pull the magnets off and then put them where you want them. For me, Mikey has a splint on both of his front legs, so I figured that if I am going to pick somewhere to put the magnets, there is as good a place as any. On his hind legs I have put the magnets up high to help any onset of arthritis. He wears them in his stable overnight and they don’t move an inch! The first thing I noticed after just a few days was the shape of Mikey’s leg – honestly – I have owned him for 3 years and have never seen such definition! There is no swelling, no puffiness and his legs both look and feel great. The second benefit, which to be honest I wasn’t really expecting... Was the difference in his splints, they have reduced in size - I was shocked! He’s had the splints around 12-18 months and I didn’t think you could really do anything for them at this stage, but I can honestly say they have both reduced in size, and the one on his right fore has almost gone. A miracle? I don’t know, but the only change I have made to his well-being is using the Equilibrium Magnetic Chaps. A definite 10/10 for me!” Equilibrium Magnetic Chaps The Equilibrium Magnetic Chaps provide a quick and effective way of providing magnetic therapy to horses. They are suitable for front and hind legs, are quick and easy to put on and can conveniently be left on overnight in the stable. The magnets are also able to be positioned anywhere within the chap – so can be placed exactly where they are needed. FIND OUT MORE

Whether you believe in magnets or not, there is something mysterious about the effect it can have on the body. And while cold, hard scientific proof is difficult to find, we do know some truths and have definitely witnessed some positive results when it comes to keeping horses legs and backs in top condition. Here are 5 things you might not have known about magnets. 1) They are suitable for all horses. Magnets can be used on all horses and ponies to maintain healthy muscles, joints, tendons and ligaments. They are great to help horses that are working hard, feel the cold, or maybe those who are being brought back into work and are recruiting muscles that haven’t been used for a while. "Love these! Feel they make a difference to my old boy who’s stiff and arthritic in front. Easy to move magnets to where you want and easy to put on." Samantha Gillespie 2) Let them do their work overnight.  Using magnets doesn’t have to cause an inconvenience to your routine or require extra time. While some other magnetic products can only be used for a limited amount of time, our Magnetic Range is designed to fit into your schedule – so you can leave them on overnight and use them everyday. In an ideal world, magnets should be used for at least 4 hours if possible – making an overnight solution super convenient, especially when we all know time can be short on the yard, particularly during winter! "Fantastic fit, easy to put on and take off and to wash for daily use. And they stay on! Which is a huge bonus, unlike other boots." Helen Gallagher 3) Neodymium, Ceramic, Rubber – not all magnets are the same. There are lots of different types of magnets made up of various components, and the type of magnet can also determine the strength. You can be blinded by science but apart from strength, there are a few other things to consider – such as weight, flexibility, how they are being applied, and as they have a local or targeted effect, are the magnets where you need them to be? Our Magnetic Range use unique magnets which can be moved to exactly where YOU need them. "I love these magnetic chaps - they’re warm, magnets are easy to move around, the ideal aid for arthritic horses!" Trusted Customer 4) Just because a magnet sticks to metal doesn’t mean it will produce an effect. Every magnet will have a gauss surface strength. This is what makes it stick to a metal surface,  i.e. a fridge magnet sticking to a fridge. It is important to understand however, that this surface measurement is not necessarily representative of its effect on your horse. 5) Magnets don’t wear out. Magnets used in most magnetic products are called Static Magnets – where they have been ‘charged’ and then hold that charge for the remainder of their days. This means their magnetic field will remain constant and the results should not diminish over time, with proper care of course! Overall, magnets have been seen to have positive effects in horses for both maintaining health and performance. And while there are different types of magnets, choose one to fit into your routine, that’s comfortable for your horse to wear and above all, effective! The Equilibrium Magnetic Range Affordable, effective magnetic products suitable for all horses and ponies. Designed to be used overnight in the stable, and perfect for all horses and ponies to support mobility, aid joint function and maintain healthy tendons.  Equilibrium Magnetic Chaps Equilibrium Hind & Hock Magnetic Chaps

We have compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions on our Magnetic Range below. If you would like your question answered, please email info@equilibriumproducts.com and we will post it here with our answer. Magnetic FAQ: How do the magnets work? A magnet has two poles, North and South. Opposite poles attract and conversely like poles repel. When a magnet is placed on the body, the magnetic properties in the body’s cells will either attract those that are opposite or repel those that are alike. In this way the activity of the cells is increased. Can I start using the magnetic products on my horse straight away? Yes. It is extremely rare for a horse to have an adverse reaction to our magnets. As with all new products, you may like to try the products on your horse for a short time initially while you’re nearby to check for fit. When should I not use magnetic products on my horse? Do not apply magnets on open wounds, bruises, infection, areas of inflammations or for the first 5 days following steroid injections. It is not advisable to use magnets on a horse with a heart murmur or in the first trimester of pregnancy for you or your horse! Note: People with heart pacemakers should not carry magnetic products. What are the benefits of the Magnetic Chaps? The Magnetic Chaps can be worn to support mobility, aid joint function and maintain healthy tendons. Magnets can help maintain blood circulation for a horse stood at rest. How long will the magnets last? The magnets will not become less efficient over time. Can I wash the magnets? The magnets themselves CANNOT be washed. The Magnetic Chaps can be washed on a cool wash with a non-biological detergent. The magnets should be removed from the protective pockets prior to washing to avoid accidental damage to the washing machine and the magnets. How should the products be stored when not in use? Store in a dry place away from extreme temperatures. For example, avoid storing the magnets in a very cold place such as a tack room during winter, as the magnets may lose their flexibility. Can the Magnetic Chaps be worn for turnout? The Magnetic Chaps should only be worn in the stable and not worn for turnout as the Chaps are not designed for outdoor use. Magnets work best when the horse is at rest. Can I use Magnetic Chaps when my horse has mud fever? We advise waiting until your horses’ mud fever has cleared up before using Magnetic Chaps. This is because magnets should not be used on open wounds or if there is any risk of infection. Can I put the Magnetic Chaps on wet legs? For comfort reasons, we would recommend towel drying horses’ legs thoroughly before putting the Magnetic Chaps on. Can I purchase replacement magnets? Yes, replacement magnets can be purchased here.

We are dedicated to creating carefully designed products that improve the wellbeing of the horse.  All of our products are thoroughly researched, tested and quality checked. The Equilibrium Massage Pad has been independently tested by Myerscough College in Lancashire. The results, following 4 weeks of testing, show that the massage pad offers significant benefits to working horses, improving back flexibility, promoting relaxation and that it could help to increase stride length. There were two parts to the study: 1) The horses were measured for signs of stress / relaxation immediately before, during and after the application of the massage pads over a six week period 2) The horses were assessed in terms of flexibility and suppleness. There were two groups of horses – a treated group and a control group. Test Methods Back flexibility was assessed using the ‘Arch Dip Test’.  The Arch & Dip test is a reliable and proven indicator of back flexibility (Pelham & Schobesberger 2006). It involves the use of pressure stimulus to generate a reflex in the horses’ back. Pressure applied to a specific region in the spinal area results in the horse ‘dipping’ away from the pressure, with a more flexible back allowing the horse to exhibit a greater ability to dip away from the source of the pressure. The arch test involves the application of pressure to the horses’ midline, in order to stimulate an upwards arch reflex in the horses’ back away from the source of pressure. Similarly, a more flexible back allows the horse to exhibit a greater ability to arch the back upwards away from the source of the pressure. As a measure of relaxation, the horses also had their heart rates monitored. Results Reducing Stiffness Test results demonstrated an overall improvement in back flexibility of approx. 46%. Stride Length The trial showed that the stride length of the horses who wore the Massage Pad which was turned on increased over the test period by 12cms, whereas the control group showed little improvement. Horse owners know that a small change in stride length can make a major difference to the way of going in the horse. Promoting Relaxation Using a heart rate monitor, horses wearing the Equilibrium Massage Pad had a consistently lower heart rate than those in the control group. Conclusion The results after 6 weeks of testing indicate that 1) the horses appeared more relaxed and 2) the performance of the horse would be expected to improve due to the increased flexibility of the horses’ back muscles. Relaxed muscles will assist with flexibility and movement in particular for competition horses performing dressage movements and jumping technical fences.

In recent years, animal physiotherapy, including massage and magnetic therapy, has grown in popularity as a way to support the musculoskeletal health of horses. These therapies aim to prevent injuries, promote recovery, and enhance performance, making them a staple for owners and trainers seeking optimal care for their equine partners. Massage, defined as the manipulation of soft tissues, offers a range of benefits including injury prevention, relaxation, fatigue recovery, and increased mobility (Hemmings, 2001). By improving flexibility and reducing musculoskeletal pain, massage can significantly enhance a horse's performance (Gellman, 1998). While manual massage techniques have long been the traditional approach, advancements in technology have introduced electrical modalities, expanding the options for therapeutic intervention. The Benefits of Equine Massage Massage isn’t just a luxury — it’s a powerful tool to promote a horse's physical and mental well-being. Here's a closer look at its key benefits: 1. Improved Flexibility and Relaxation Tension in the muscles and soft tissues is one of the most common causes of poor performance in horses. Tension can manifest in various ways, such as stiffness, shortened stride length, or behavioural issues like hollowness, bucking, or even rearing. Regular massage helps release this tension, promoting relaxation and improving back flexibility. By maintaining a healthy, supple back, horses are better equipped to perform to their full potential. 2. Enhanced Blood Flow and Circulation Massage stimulates blood flow to the treated areas, promoting vasodilation — the widening of blood vessels. This increased circulation brings an enhanced supply of oxygen and nutrients to the muscles, which is crucial for maintaining muscle health. Post-exercise, massage aids in flushing out metabolic waste products like lactic acid, which can otherwise contribute to soreness and fatigue. 3. Reduction in Injury Risk By keeping muscles pliable, soft, and free of adhesions, massage reduces the risk of strains or tears. Regular massage sessions with a qualified therapist can also highlight any musculature changes, and allow you to identify any potential problems.  4. Behavioural and Psychological Benefits Massage doesn’t just address physical issues. The release of endorphins during massage sessions provides a sense of relaxation and comfort, making it an effective tool for managing stress, but also giving the horse a 'feel-good' sensation.  When to Use Massage Incorporating massage into your horse's routine can be beneficial in various scenarios. Here are some practical applications: For horses on box rest: Massage helps maintain circulation and prevent muscle atrophy during periods of restricted movement. After exercise: Helps with muscle recovery by removing toxins and promoting repair. Before exercise: Serves as a valuable part of a warm-up routine, increasing circulation and encouraging relaxation to prepare muscles for activity. After travelling: Helps to alleviate stiffness and discomfort caused by prolonged periods of standing in a trailer or lorry. On rest days: Supports overall maintenance and recovery, ensuring muscles remain supple. As a reward: A relaxing massage can be a great way to bond with your horse. Manual vs. Technology-Assisted Massage Traditional massage techniques, performed manually, remain widely practised and effective. However, the introduction of electrical modalities, such as massage pads or handheld devices, has made equine massage more accessible and consistent. These tools can target specific areas, provide adjustable intensity, and are convenient for use both at home and on the go. These do not replace the roles of qualified therapists, but can assist in between sessions and potentially prolong the time between sessions depending on the horse.  Conclusion Equine massage is a versatile, science-backed practice that contributes to your horse’s overall health and performance. By integrating massage into your care routine, you can help reduce the risk of injuries, improve flexibility, and enhance relaxation — all while strengthening your bond with your horse. Whether you choose manual techniques or technology-assisted options, regular massage offers an investment in your horse's long-term well-being. If you’re new to equine massage, consider consulting a certified veterinary physiotherapist to develop a programme tailored to your horse’s specific needs. With consistent care, you’ll likely see the benefits reflected not just in their physical health, but in their performance and temperament as well.  

Headshaking doesn’t mean an end to riding. Nose nets and other facial coverings have played a large part in returning many head shakers to normal function. They remain the most successful, preventative, home treatment for headshaking. A recent trial showed the use of nose nets halved the severity of headshaking symptoms in 50% of the horses studied with some improvement in symptoms seen in up to 80% of sufferers. In addition, our research has shown that nose nets do not appear to work by actively filtering out pollen particles and stop them from being inhaled – the holes are just too big! Instead, it is thought that they may work by distorting the airflow to the nose and their presence may distract or comfort the horse. British Dressage and British Eventing have now accepted the use of nose nets in competition. Face and ear nets can also be effective in alleviating headshaking which may suggest that for some horses there is a different cause or that these nets also have a distracting or protective role. Alleviating headshaking Creating a good relationship with your vet and trusting their judgement is an essential start to managing headshaking.  Drugs are available such as commonly used cyproheptadine and carbamazepine. Surgical techniques can be used to cut faulty nerves that are thought to cause headshaking. The success of these methods is variable but is increasing as we learn more about the condition. Keeping a diary of headshaking attacks may help you to identify potential triggers or times when the headshaking is worse. As a rule, preventing an attack is better than attempting to ride the horse through one. Remember, most head shakers are suffering from an underlying clinical problem that causes the headshaking. Some owners report improvements when their horses are stabled during the day and turned out at night in the summer. In addition, wetting hay reduces the possibility of any respiratory complications. A recent report concluded that acupuncture is unlikely to be of benefit in the majority of cases. With careful management, the outlook for many head shakers is bright and a happy and rewarding relationship can still be maintained.  Although it seems that in terms of potential causes we’re doing more ruling out than ruling in research is progressing and the future is promising.

Headshaking explained Maybe you’re just getting to grips with a new mount this spring or you’re bringing on your youngster.  Imagine your horror when you find your horse starts headshaking. Your dreams of being able to compete or even hack safely begin to crumble around you.   But don’t despair – headshaking need not mean the end to your horse’s riding career.  New research is helping vets and owners to better understand this condition and give practical solutions for managing the problem. What is headshaking? Nowadays it seems that everyone knows someone with a head shaker.  But what is a ‘head shaker’ and what distinguishes them from a horse with a short-term irritation or behavioural problem? Most horses shake their heads from time to time to get rid of flies or when frustrated. Horses that simply nod their heads when stabled or as they turn home from a ride, may not be head shakers but ‘nodders’, a condition that is responsive  to changes in management. ‘Nodders’ do not usually cause great problems to themselves or their owner. True head shakers do so persistently and for no apparent reason. They exhibit sharp, jerky vertical and horizontal head movements.  The severity of the movements can vary from small flicks to huge, sweeping arcs which threaten to hit the rider on the nose or unseat them. Experts now recognise that head shakers also exhibit symptoms that suggest the horse is suffering from irritation within or around the face and muzzle.  Head shakers that also snort excessively during an attack will try to rub their face or act as if a bee has gone up their nose. They may even run their nose along the ground or strike the ground during the attack.  Moreover the unpredictability of the length and occurrence of these attacks can severely limit a rider’s ability to compete or even ride safely. By Dr Katy Taylor De Montfort University

The Horse’s Hock Joint “The horse’s hock is a complex joint, and plays a major part in the generation of power to jump and gallop, as well as to “sit” in advanced dressage movements. As such, hocks are prone to both degeneration and injury.” Natalie McGoldrick MRCVS The horses hock joint is complex, but important and as most things with horses, can pose multiple problems to our horses working lives. We look into the anatomy of the joint, as well as the common problems associated with it, how they are diagnosed and finally, how they are treated. Horse's Hock anatomy The horse’s hock joint is one of the hardest working of all the joints, and plays a critical role especially in performance horses. It is also one of the most complicated. The horse’s hock is made up of 10 bones and 4 joints supported by several ligaments. The largest joint is the tarso crural joint (TCJ), which forms the upper part of the hock and has a ball and socket mechanism. The TCJ has the greatest range of movement and is known as a high motion joint. The other 3 joints, the proximal intertarsal (PIT), distal intertarsal (DIT) and tarsometatarsal (TMT), act as shock absorbers and are low motion joints. The lower joints – and particularly the DIT and TMT - are the most common sources of lameness in horses because they are under significant stress in a working horse. Common problems of horse’s hock joint Horse lameness is often caused by inflammatory changes that interfere with the normal structure and function of the horse’s hock. Problems can develop gradually so early signs may be as subtle as loss of performance. Other symptoms include: intermittent lameness with or without heat or swelling initial stiffness that improves during warm-up resistance to going downhill soreness in lower back muscles as a result of overcompensating for the hocks Potential horse hock joint problems include: capped hock thoroughpin (puffy swellings similar to windgalls seen around the fetlocks) bog spavin (not a condition as such but caused by an inflamed joint) bone spavin and most commonly, osteochondritis dessecans (OCD) and osteoarthritis (OA) i.e. arthritis of the bone. Osteochondritis dessecans (OCD) OCD and OA are progressive conditions, which mean they tend to worsen over time. They both affect the bone and cartilage causing inflammation and pain. In OCD, abnormalities of the bone and cartilage may result in small fragments breaking off and floating around inside the joint which also cause inflammation. OCD may arise due to rapid growth – it’s often seen in young horses and in foals less than a year old – or due to nutritional issues, genetics, hormonal imbalances or due to trauma relating to exercise. Osteoarthritis (OA) OA arises because the inflamed bone produces additional bone and arises in the lower hock. This process of new bone formation causes restricted movement in the joint, alongside pain and lameness. Horses undergoing high-intensity exercise or those with poor conformation, such as straight, sickle or cow hocks, are more prone to developing hock problems such as OA, though it can also arise in horses doing little work. Diagnosis of OCD and OA of the Horse’s Hock Joint Your vet can perform a number of tests to diagnose hock problems, including flexion tests and X-rays. Natalie McGoldrick MRCVS of South Coast Equine Vets says,”The horse’s hock is a complex joint, and plays a major part in the generation of power to jump and gallop, as well as to sit in advanced dressage movements. Hocks are prone to both degeneration and injury.Probably the most common hock issue is arthritis; this can present subtlety as a small drop in performance, up to signs as obvious as moderate to severe lameness. It is rare to see hock arthritis other than in the lower two hock joints. The hock is also very exposed. It is a common joint to bear the full force of a kick from another horse, or to be badly wounded if a horse kicks through fencing. I always advise for any hock wounds or swellings to be seen as a matter of urgency, especially if combined with lameness. Treatment of OA of the Hock Joint For OA in the horse’s hock joint, the usual course of action from your vet is the injection of anti-inflammatory drugs, such as corticosteroids, directly into the hock joint (intra-articular injections). Your horse will need to have a couple of days rest afterwards and then slowly ease back into work. The benefits of these injections may range from a few weeks to a year or longer. For cases that don’t respond to the conventional steroids, hydrogels may be injected with the aim of reducing pain, conserving cartilage and improving joint mobility. For cases of OCD, treatment is usually surgical removal of the abnormal bone and cartilage though factors need to be considered such as the severity of lameness, location of OCD and age of the horse. There are also non-prescription joint supplements available which may promote healthy cartilage and are preventative rather than therapeutic. Use of alternative therapies such as massage, magnetic and heat can also help keep surrounding muscle tissue healthy, as many horses may begin to compensate elsewhere in their bodies. Read more on managing a horse with hock arthritis from a physiotherapists perspective here.  Products to help:  Magnetic Chaps Stable Chaps Massage Mitt Hotspot

It may seem like you have tried everything you can to help your horse who head shakes, but nothing seems to be helping? Here’s a story to keep you going and encourage you not to give up! Take a read about Kyle and Vin’s journey. Kyles Story I bought my RPSI gelding, Vin, back in 2012 when he was an 8 year old. He had previously done some fox hunting and low level dressage. During the first few months of owning him, he started to exhibit a head toss during exercise, which would increase as we worked more. At first, my trainer and I thought it might be him avoiding contact or staying in frame for collected dressage work, so we spent time building muscle, top line, balance, etc… When that didn’t alleviate anything we went the martingale route (which I’m ashamed of now, knowing he was dealing with something he literally couldn’t control) which would allow us to work but he’d still rail against the straps during our entire ride. It was about a year into it when I started reading about products to help with this. One of the first hits we got was the Muzzle Net from Equilibrium Products. Both my trainer and I looked at it, and both agreed there was no way it was that simple and moved on to the next product. We began with antihistamines, since he’d often rub his nose on his legs when it got the worst. When that didn’t solve anything we tried Equiwinner patches. After losing patch after patch in the pasture and not knowing how long he kept it on we decided to forgo that. We purchased all kinds of sun protection contraptions, all with no results. Then we moved on to using magnesium, which we did see a small improvement with. The head toss would still be there but would take a few more minutes into work to present itself. During this “stage” in our experiments, I went ahead and ordered the Muzzle Net from Equilibrium. Both my trainer and I shook our heads the day I was bridling him up and attaching it, but we were also at our literal wits end on what to try. That very first ride with the net we had almost ZERO toss. He was finally able to relax, release some tension at the poll and seemed to just “breathe”. We both kicked ourselves for not trying this months/years earlier.  The magnesium/net combo helped for a few years, or at least calmed it enough for us to compete in jumping and dressage at a low level. As Vin got a bit older, his shaking progressed some and got back to the point where it was almost too violent for me to ride him. His tosses when he got going were so large that he’d throw his front legs off the ground at times. I found a study online that utilized injectable dexamethasone administered orally, which seemed a little scary, but at this point I was considering just retiring him out to pasture so we gave it a shot. We spoke to our vet, which understandably was pretty cautious and moved forward. Within the first couple months we saw AMAZING improvement. By pulse #4 we had no toss/irritation as long as we continued to ride with the Muzzle Net. Since then, we can get by with pulsing only when his symptoms present themselves and usually only 1 to 2 times per year. It’s literally saved him for us.

Kissing Spine in horses seems to be all too common today with so many diagnosed. We caught up with Clara Kavanagh about her horse Chili, who is currently in rehabilitation following ‘the ligament snip’, as she explains his symptoms & diagnosis, her decision and the recovery!  The Early Days “I started looking for my ‘dream horse’ last summer, this was a very exciting time for me as I had only ever been able to beg, borrow and lease ponies/horses in my childhood up until I finished my degree in Equine Management. I purchased Chili in August 2018, he is a 6 year old Thoroughbred. I always thought about buying a racehorse and retraining them for a new career. Chili was last raced in June 2018 under the name Farrier Fury. I knew Chili was the right horse for me as he had such a great temperament and once I got him home he was brought on very slowly and took to his new career like a duck to water. He has always acted like an absolute gentleman wherever I brought him! The plan was to gently start him over the winter with a goal to compete in our Riding Club Dressage Spring league and do some Retraining Racehorse to Riding horse classes in the summer of 2019.” The Start of Our Setbacks “Chili unfortunately got a stone bruise in February which I thought would be our only hiccup. However this was only the beginning of our setbacks. One day I went to tack him up for a short hack and noticed he was unusually girthy, and he was very grumpy, which isn’t like him at all. I called the physio to come take a look at him. The physio was concerned that he was showing a lot of stiffness over his back and sacroiliac region, the first thing that came to mind for me was Kissing Spine.  His whole temperament had changed, it was hard for me as it was like I was losing my best friend. I was worried about Chili, so I rang our local vet. I had the vet out to give Chili a once over, the vet gave us advice to continue light work. I had people telling me that I must be imagining something was wrong or that I was silly spending money for the physio and vet to come out just because I had a gut feeling. I was starting to think, they might be right or I might be a hypochondriac the way I was worrying because even though the vet gave him a once over I knew something wasn’t right with him. I wanted to get a second opinion, so I rang Troytown Greyabbey Equine Hospital and spoke to their lameness/orthopaedic specialist and explained my concerns.  So I booked him in for an appointment the following week. Diagnosis Chili spent about two hours having a full lameness diagnostic done which consisted of a trot up, lunging, flexion tests and x-rays. On seeing the X-rays it confirmed my fears, it was Kissing Spine, he had four processes touching. The vet confirmed that the kissing spine had most likely resulted from his racing career and his back conformation. Our choice was to have surgery (Interspinous Ligament Desmotomy, aka ‘The Ligament Snip’) or to medicate via corticosteroid injections. Chili also turned out to have a bone chip on his near hind fetlock however it causes him no issues! I brought him back to the hospital for bone scintigraphy scans, this helped me decide that the surgical route would be in Chili’s best interest as he was still a young horse and he would benefit the most from the ligament snip. The specialist vet was optimistic that if the surgery and rehab was successful Chili would be more than capable of returning to a competitive career with a rehab time of 6-8 weeks. This meant there was a small glimmer of hope for us, so I booked Chili in for surgery. Chili spent 4 days at the Equine Hospital, the surgery went very well, and Chili began intensive hand walking by the nurses the day after surgery. I brought Chili home on 26th of April and have been continuing to hand walk him for 30 minutes twice daily. Chili has since had a check up at Troytown Greyabbey to remove the stitches and the vet could not be happier with his progress.  He has been an absolute pleasure to rehab so far, he really is my dream horse! My advice to any horse owners that may be going through the same challenges as Chili and I faced would be to always trust your gut, you alone know you’re horse well enough to make the right choice regarding what is best for them. If in doubt don’t be afraid to ask for help or a second opinion. I dread to think how long Chili might have continued to soldier on in pain had I not trusted my gut. I would highly recommend the Equilibrium Massage Pad to any horse owner. It is very easy to incorporate into your everyday routine warm-up/warm down and it has made a big difference to Chili! It was comforting to know that the massage pad kept him relaxed! Chili is now starting week 4, he has started long reining in walk this week and will incorporate work in a Pessoa once the incision points on his back have had more time to heal. Our Physio has also been out this week to release any tension and do some laser therapy. I have been using Massage Pad and Magnetic Rug daily since the operation and it is honestly like having my best friend back! He is much more relaxed in himself and I have Troytown Greyabbey and Equilibrium Products to thank for that! Chili has another 4 weeks at least until he can begin work back under saddle but its a big step in the right direction!”