Case Histories
Equine Case History
Murphy a 7 year old sports horse used for pre-novice events was reported to be disunited in canter on the left rein and often bucked into transition. On veterinary inspection Murphy was found to be asymmetric and had difficulty in engaging the left hind-limbs during lunge work on the left rein, reducing propulsion and the ability to work in an outline. Physiotherapy was recommended by the vet.
Assessment:
- Observations: Hollow outline, weak abdominals, anterior tilt of pelvis
- Walk: Reduced cranial flight phase of the left hind-limb
- Trot: Asymmetric gait pattern, Elevation without propulsion through left hind-limb, appears stiff
- Lunge (Left Rein): Falling out through hind-quarters on left rein, lacking engagement and ability to track-up
- 5 metre circle: Difficulty with left hind limb crossing under body
- Reverse: Short steps, hollow back
- Palpation: Left lumbar epaxial muscle spasm, fasciculation’s under the saddle area, Tightness through left Hip Flexors and Gluteals, Trigger points at insertions site of the left Hamstrings
Treatment:
- Myofascial release of left lumbar epaxial muscle group
- Reciprocal inhibition
- Reflex stretches
- Trans Cutaneous Electrical Stimulation (Lumbar epaxials, Hip Flexors, Gluteal muscle groups)
- Trigger point release of left hamstrings
- Hind-limb stretches
- Rehabilitation exercise programme on long reins to stretch lumbar epaxial muscle group and to encourage engagement of left hind limb
- Saddle fit advice
Outcome - No longer sensitive in left lumbar epaxial musculature, no fasciculation’s. No longer disunited in canter or bucking during transitions. Able to engage left hind limb, improving propulsion and ability to track up and overall outline during flat work.
Testimonial - “Having both the treatment and the rehabilitation advice given to us by Sally, gave us the peace of mind to return Murphy back into work knowing that he was pain free and moving correctly”
Canine Case History
Border Terrier (8 yrs old) diagnosed with C6-7 disc extrusion causing spinal cord compression
Signs and Symptoms:
- Sudden and acute onset of hind limb paresis causing the dog to “bum shuffle”
- Extensor tone
Investigations:
- Immediate referral to a neurologist and subsequent MRI investigation revealed C6-7 disc extrusion with associated spinal cord compression
Treatment - On discussion it was decided to follow a conservative treatment programme aimed at reducing tone, maintaining and improving muscular strength, joint range of movement whilst practicing functional movement patterns through the initiation of sitting, standing and walking positions. In addition a sensory diet was also included to aid proprioception and balance.
Techniques included:
- Joint and soft tissue mobilisations to maintain range of movement
- Positioning
- Standing/sitting practice
- Proprioceptive exercise programme and balance programme
- Laser and electrical muscle stimulation to prevent muscle atrophy
Outcome:
- Normalised tone after 3 weeks
- Active movement of hind limbs
- Able to walk short distances
- Steady and balanced, No proprioceptive deficits
Testimonial - "Sally has performed physiotherapy on my dog with great success. I have always found Sally to be kind, caring and patient with my dog and she has explained in easy to understand terms what she is doing and why. The home care techniques that Sally gives you are straight forward and I have found my dog to really enjoy the one on one time we have during these sessions. I would recommend Sally to anyone whose animal would benefit from physiotherapy"