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Case Study on a 50-75% Torn Peroneus Tertius Tendon
In late December 2023, Scotty, a 12-year-old Zangersheide Dressage horse, experienced a significant pasture accident that resulted in lameness in his left hind limb. A veterinary assessment on January 8, 2024, revealed a 50-75% tear in his peroneus tertius tendon and a torn muscle in his gaskin region. The prognosis indicated a 6-9 month recovery period, with the initial 60 days being critical to prevent rapid or abrupt movements. This is where our expertise in equine bodywork became instrumental in Scotty's journey to recovery.
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Treatment Plan
The veterinarian prescribed a strict protocol for the first 60 days, emphasizing the need to prevent rapid and abrupt movements to ensure proper healing and tissue repair. Alongside this, a comprehensive therapeutic intervention strategy was implemented to expedite the recovery process.
Therapeutic Interventions
Therapeutic interventions played a crucial role in Scotty's rehabilitation:
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PEMF Therapy for Horses: Scotty received pulsed electromagnetic field therapy 3-4 times per week for the first four months. The frequency was later reduced to twice weekly in the fifth month and once weekly thereafter. This non-invasive therapy helped reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and promote tissue repair.
Equine Kinesiology Taping: Applied to the left hind limb, kinesiology tape provided mechanical support and enhanced blood circulation to the injured tissues during the first three months.
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Neuro Fascial Conditioning for Horses: Introduced in the fifth month, this therapy focused on optimizing Scotty’s nervous system function and fascial health, facilitating better movement patterns and faster recovery.
Rib Entrapment Syndrome Therapy: Also initiated in the fifth month, this therapy addressed rib misalignments and associated discomfort, improving Scotty's overall biomechanics and comfort.
Equine Chiropractic Adjustments: Regular adjustments were performed on Scotty’s sacrum, poll, and sternum to restore alignment and mobility.
Progress Assessment
March 7, 2024: A follow-up veterinary examination revealed:
- Complete healing of the torn muscle.
- Significant improvement in the peroneus tertius tendon, with reformed tendon fibers leaving only a small pea-sized defect in the central anterior aspect of the hock.
- Scotty was cleared to gradually increase his activity, starting with 30-45 minutes of walking for the next 2-3 weeks, followed by an introduction of 15 minutes of trotting over the subsequent 2-3 weeks.
April 30, 2024 (Month 4): Another follow-up showed further significant healing of tendon fibers, allowing Scotty to commence cantering and be reintroduced to supervised turnout.
May 31, 2024 (Month 5): Scotty was officially cleared to resume regular work activities.
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Rehabilitation Activities
Throughout the rehabilitation process, Scotty engaged in various groundwork exercises and bodywork sessions:
Balanced through Better Movement: Techniques such as pillar work and moving massage were employed to enhance suppleness, strength, and coordination. These activities supported physical recovery and fostered confidence in Scotty’s movement capabilities.
Nutrition Program
Nutrition played a key role in Scotty’s recovery. By taking care of his gut biome with FarmGalz Equine Belly Balancer, I noticed a significant improvement in Scotty’s demeanor and a reduction in his anxiety levels.
Outcome
By April 30, 2024, significant progress had been made in Scotty's rehabilitation. Despite the standard healing time for a peroneus tertius tendon tear being 6-9 months, diligent care, comprehensive therapeutic modalities, and structured rehabilitation exercises facilitated Scotty's recovery to the point of cantering within 4 months and returning to full work at 5 months. Scotty was ready to reintegrate into normal turnout activities and gradually resume his pre-injury levels of activity.
Conclusion
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Scotty's successful rehabilitation underscores the efficacy of a holistic approach to equine care. The therapeutic interventions provided, including PEMF therapy, kinesiology taping, neuro fascial conditioning, and rib entrapment syndrome therapy, played a pivotal role in accelerating the healing process. This integrative approach, combined with careful management and monitoring, contributed to Scotty’s positive outcome and sets a precedent for future equine rehabilitation efforts. Continued support and monitoring will be essential as Scotty transitions back to his regular routine, ensuring sustained well-being and performance.
At Balanced Holistic Therapies, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive equine bodywork services that promote healing, enhance performance, and support overall wellness. If your horse is recovering from an injury or needs support in maintaining optimal health, contact us today to learn how our tailored therapies can make a difference. DON'T HESITATE TO GET IN TOUCH WITH RACHEL AT 954.821.8966 TODAY OR FIND ME ON FACEBOOK AND INSTAGRAM.
Rachel Devick
Owner, CEMT, CEMFT, Balanced Holistic Therapies