Topic:Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation for horses refers to the process of restoring physical function and performance following injury, illness, or surgery. This process often involves a combination of veterinary care, physical therapy, and specialized training techniques. Rehabilitation aims to promote healing, improve mobility, and prevent further injury. Common methods used in equine rehabilitation include controlled exercise programs, hydrotherapy, and the use of therapeutic modalities such as laser therapy and ultrasound. The effectiveness of these methods is evaluated through clinical assessments and performance metrics. This page compiles peer-reviewed research studies and scholarly articles that explore the methodologies, outcomes, and advancements in the field of equine rehabilitation.
Therapeutic horseback riding. Exploring this alternative therapy for women with disabilities. The horse has been used as a therapeutic agent since the time of the ancient Greeks, and Hippocrates once spoke of “riding's healing rhythm” Early Greeks were reported to offer horseback rides to raise the spirits of people who had incurable illnesses. Therapeutic riding refers to the use of the horse and equine‐oriented activities to achieve a variety of therapeutic goals, including physical, emotional, social, cognitive, behavioral and educational goals. An important area of concern for women with disabilities is achieving the highest level of wellness possible. Because of their holist...
Treatment of septic common digital extensor tenosynovitis by complete resection in seven horses. To describe and evaluate a technique for radical resection of the entire intrathecal component of the common digital extensor tendon (CDET) in horses. Methods: Prospective clinical study. Methods: Seven client-owned horses. Methods: Seven horses with wounds that resulted in septic tenosynovitis of the CDET sheath were treated by complete surgical resection of the affected tendon and ablation of the tendon sheath; 5 had previous surgery that was unsuccessful. Time from initial injury to complete resection was 1-22 weeks. In 6 horses, the wound was closed primarily using a closed suction (4 hors...
Segmental ostectomy of the second and fourth metacarpal and metatarsal bones in horses: 17 cases (1993-2002). To determine clinical findings in and outcome of horses with fractures of the second or fourth metacarpal or metatarsal bone that underwent segmental ostectomy, leaving the proximal and distal portions of the bone undisturbed. Methods: Retrospective case series. Methods: 17 horses. Methods: Medical records were reviewed, and information on signalment, affected bone, lesion type, surgical procedure, amount of bone removed, and surgical and postsurgical complications was obtained. Follow-up information was obtained through telephone conversations with owners, trainers, and referring veterinarian...
Hoof capsule distortion: understanding the mechanisms as a basis for rational management. Understanding the basic mechanisms of hoof capsule distortion enables the clinician to unravel the sometimes complex mix of abnormalities, identify early warning signs, and manage existing problems more effectively. Distortion of the hoof capsule can often seem like a complicated puzzle by the time the veterinarian is called to examine the lame horse. Evaluating each of the components of the hoof capsule, both individually and as an integrated unit, allows the clinician to tease apart the tangle of primary and secondary problems and come up with effective options for countering or attenuating ...
Healing characteristics of deep digital flexor tenorrhaphy within the digital sheath of horses. To describe the healing characteristics of deep digital flexor tenorrhaphy within the digital sheath. Methods: Experimental study. Methods: Five mature horses. Methods: Right thoracic limb, deep digital flexor tenorrhaphy was performed within the digital sheath. Limbs were cast in partial flexion using a short limb cast for 6 weeks. Next, extended heel shoes were used for limb support for 14 weeks. Healing was evaluated by sequential ultrasonographic examinations, and limb use was evaluated by force plate analysis. At 26 weeks, mechanical strength and morphologic characteristics of the repair ...
Long-term follow-up of manipulative treatment in a horse with back problems. In order to objectively quantify the effect of manipulation on back-related locomotion anomalies in the horse, a recently developed kinematic measuring technique for the objective quantification of thoracolumbar motion in the horse was applied in a dressage horse that was suffering from a back problem. In this horse, clinically, a right-convex bending (scoliosis) from the 10th thoracic vertebra to the second lumbar vertebra was diagnosed. As a result, there was a marked asymmetric movement of the thoracolumbar spine. Functionally, there was severe loss of performance. Thoracolumbar motion was ...
Use of a dynamic compression plate and a cable cerclage system for repair of a fracture of the radius in a horse. A pregnant 9-year-old Peruvian Paso mare was evaluated because of a fracture involving the left radius. On examination, grade IV/V lameness of the left forelimb was observed; radiography of the limb revealed a longitudinal oblique displaced fracture that extended from the caudal cortex of the radial mid-diaphysis into the humeroradial joint. To minimize the development of degenerative joint disease in the humeroradial joint, repair with internal fixation was recommended. A dynamic compression plate was applied to the cranial aspect of the radius; three 2-mm stainless steel cable cerclages were...
Acceleration of cartilage repair by genetically modified chondrocytes over expressing bone morphogenetic protein-7. Cartilage has a limited capacity to heal. Although chondrocyte transplantation is a useful therapeutic strategy, the repair process can be lengthy. Previously we have shown that over expression of bone morphogenetic protein-7 (BMP-7) in chondrocytes by adenovirus-mediated gene transfer leads to increased matrix synthesis and cartilage-like tissue formation in vitro. In this context we hypothesized that implantation of genetically modified chondrocytes expressing BMP-7 would accelerate the formation of hyaline-like repair tissue in an equine model of cartilage defect repair. Methods: Chondrocyt...
[Tissue engineering: new treatment of cartilage alterations in degenerative joint diseases in horses–preliminary results of a long term study]. Degenerative alterations in fetlock joints of the forelimb are common diagnoses for horses. The hyaline cartilage has a low capacity to regenerate and the treatment by veterinarians is often insufficient. As a final result, horses with articular cartilage defects are often not able to take part in competitions anymore. To establish an autologous cartilage repair method, we set artificial lesions (8 mm in diameter) into the fetlock joints of the forelimb of three horses. These defects were closed with autologous chondrocyte implants, which were fixed with titan-suture-anchors. After 3, 12 and 2...
Desmitis of the straight sesamoidean ligament in horses: 9 cases (1995-1997). To determine clinical signs, diagnostic findings, and outcome for horses with desmitis of the straight sesamoidean ligament (SSL) near its insertion on the middle phalanx. Methods: Retrospective study. Methods: 9 horses. Methods: Medical records were reviewed, and information on signalment, history, clinical signs, diagnostic findings, and treatment was obtained. Follow-up information was obtained through telephone conversations with owners. Results: In all horses, the diagnosis was made by use of high-resolution ultrasonography. Seven horses had moderate lameness on initial examination; lamen...
[Advantages of ride therapy in different forms of infantile cerebral palsy (therapeutic riding)]. One hundred children with cerebral palsy, aged 3-14 years, were divided into two equal groups, the first one including 50 children assigned to ride therapy and the second one--to Bobath therapeutic gymnastics. All the patients underwent a functional examination, which was rated using score system worked out by the authors, thus enabling a quantitative evaluation of treatment efficacy. In all the cases, physical rehabilitation resulted in a positive but not the same effect, with ride therapy being significantly (p < 0.001) more beneficial treatment compared to therapeutic gymnastics. Ride thera...
Conservative management of 17 horses with nonarticular fractures of the tibial tuberosity. Fractures of the tibial tuberosity (FTT) are caused by direct trauma, and are the second most commonly reported injury in event horses with stifle trauma. Conservative management of horses with FTT has been advocated, but results and prognosis for this method of therapy are unknown. Objective: To report and review the findings of a retrospective study of 17 horses admitted to a veterinary teaching hospital from 1986-2001 with nonarticular FTT that received conservative management. Methods: Subject details, aetiology of the accident, limb affected, degree of lameness at time of admission, size ...
[Horseback riding therapy in development of motor skills in infantile cerebral palsy]. No abstract available
Use of a hydroxyapatite orbital implant in a cosmetic corneoscleral prosthesis after enucleation in a horse. A hydroxyapatite orbital implant was used after enucleation of an eye from a 5-year-old performance horse. A custom-made corneoscleral prosthesis was made and fitted over the hydroxyapatite implant. The implant and surgery were well tolerated. Placement of a cosmetic prosthesis is desired after enucleation of equine eyes to allow horses to return to competition. Synthetic spheres consisting of methylmethacrylate or silicone have been used, although reported complications have included extrusion, infection, and poor cosmetic results. Hydroxyapatite orbital implants made from marine coral allow ...
Ultrasonographic abnormalities detected in the sacroiliac area in twenty cases of upper hindlimb lameness. The pelvis is covered with extensive musculature and often presents a challenge in diagnostic imaging. Ultrasonography provides diagnostic information about soft tissue, articular cartilage and bone surfaces, although little information exists about the normal ultrasonographic appearance of the equine sacroiliac region. Objective: To determine the clinical applicability of ultrasonographic examination in horses with sacroiliac pain. Methods: Horses presented to the University of Minnesota Veterinary Teaching Hospital for hindlimb lameness were evaluated and lower limb lameness was ruled out wi...
[Initial management of congenital varus equinus clubfoot by Ponseti’s method]. The choice of first-line treatment for congenital varus equine clubfoot remains a controversial issue largely dependent on experience. In France, functional treatment predominates. In 1948, Ponseti proposed reducing the deformity with successive casts. Although cast treatment is a very old method, Ponseti's method is original because it is based on strict rules established from anatomic evidence. The goal is not to correct the apparent deformation, but on the contrary to impose a simultaneous supination and abduction of the foot. Once the calcaneopedal block has been derotated, percutaneous te...
In vitro evaluation of nonrigid support systems for the equine metacarpophalangeal joint. Metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint extension is primarily resisted by the digital flexor tendons and suspensory ligament. A variety of external support techniques are used to protect these supporting structures from or after injury by resisting MCP joint extension, although not all are effective and/or practical for use in an exercising horse. In this study, 7 forelimbs were loaded in vitro to determine the effect of a simple gamgee bandage, a 3-layered bandage with and without a contoured palmar splint, a neoprene exercise boot, and an innovative carbon fibre composite exercise boot (Dalmar tend...
[Hippotherapy as a method for complex rehabilitation of patients with late residual stage of infantile cerebral palsy]. Influence and therapeutic efficacy of horseback riding (hippotherapy) as a method for complex rehabilitation of patients with late residual stage of infantile cerebral palsy were studied. Significant increase of a range of active and passive mosements in large joints of lower extremities, higher, indices of hand dynamometry on the left, of vital lung capacity as well as a relief of relief of reactive and personality anxiety and depression, higher motivation for rehabilitation treatment, etc., were registered. Neurophysiological study revealed significant changes of afferentation at stem and th...
Influence of draw reins on ground reaction forces at the trot. According to riding texts, draw reins are supposed to support increased collection. This has not been measured objectively. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine whether a horse ridden with draw reins would relatively increase weightbearing of the hindquarters while worked with the draw reins compared to a normal rein. Ground reaction forces were measured in 8 horses at the slow trot over a force plate in 3 different experimental set-ups: 1) riding with only a draw rein (DR); 2) riding with the combination of a normal and a draw rein (NR-DR) and 3) riding with a normal rein (...
The effect of reins on kinetic variables of locomotion. The equestrian literature and reports of experienced riders indicated that attitude of a horse's head and neck is related to the equine locomotion characteristics. The purpose of this study was to quantify the effects of 3 types of reins on locomotion at walk and trot. Eight saddle horses were tested in an automatic walker without reins, with rubber bands, Chambons and Back lift, using the same procedure. The rubber bands closed the head-neck angle, whereas the Chambons and the Back lift opened it. The gait characteristics were measured with the Equimetrix gait analysis system. Two acceleromet...
Use of a hydro-pool system to recover horses after general anesthesia: 60 cases. To report complications observed using a hydro-pool recovery system after general anesthesia in horses. Methods: Retrospective study. Methods: Sixty horses. Methods: Retrospective review of the medical records and quality of recovery from anesthesia of 60 horses that had surgical or diagnostic procedures under general anesthesia. Results: Mean total anesthesia time was 182 minutes (range, 25 to 390 minutes). Mean time in the hydro-pool was 108 minutes (range, 20 to 270 minutes). One horse that had bilateral rear limb extensor weakness while recovering in a padded recovery stall was moved to th...
Conservative management of minimally displaced radial fractures in three horses. Minimally displaced, spiral, radial fractures were diagnosed in three adult horses. Two horses had open fractures and in one horse the fracture was closed. A diagnosis was made on radiographs taken 24 h, 5, and 9 days after the fracture. There was minimal displacement of the fracture fragments despite the considerable time which had elapsed between fracture and diagnosis and an unfavourable prognosis with internal fixation, so conservative therapy was the preferred method of treatment. One horse developed a sequestrum and draining sinus, which was treated surgically under general anaesthesia 3...
Fourier analysis of trunk displacements: a method to identify the lame limb in trotting horses. The aim of this paper is to present a method allowing the identification of the lame limb in trotting horses. Using a 3-D kinematic analysis system, 13 sound and 25 lame horses fitted with 4 skin markers placed on the dorsal midline of their trunk were recorded while trotting on a track in the conditions of the routine lameness examination. The vertical displacements of the trunk markers underwent Fourier analysis. Results indicated that these displacements could be represented using only the first and second harmonics. From these two harmonics, indices were then developed. The sensitivity of ...
Effects of 25% propylene glycol hydrogel (Solugel) on second intention wound healing in horses. To evaluate the effect of a commercially available 25% propylene glycol hydrogel preparation (Solugel; Johnson and Johnson Medical, North Ryde, Australia) on healing of full-thickness skin wounds on the distal aspect of the limb in horses. Methods: Experimental. Methods: Eight Standardbred horses. Methods: Standardized (2.5 x 2.5 cm) full-thickness skin wounds were created over the mid-dorsomedial aspect of both metacarpi in 8 horses. One wound in each horse was dressed with saline solution (0.9% NaCl) soaked gauze, and one was treated with Solugel under dry regular gauze; wounds were then ban...
Synovial regeneration in the equine carpus after arthroscopic mechanical or carbon dioxide laser synovectomy. To compare synovial regeneration in the equine carpus after mechanical or CO(2) laser synovectomy. Methods: Arthroscopic partial synovectomy was performed in the radiocarpal and intercarpal joints. Methods: Twelve horses, 3 to 6 years of age, were randomly divided into 3 groups. Methods: The antebrachiocarpal and intercarpal joints in each horse were randomly assigned a treatment such that each horse had one joint treated as a control (arthroscopic lavage), one in which a mechanical or CO(2) laser partial dorsal carpal synovectomy was performed, and one in which a combination of the mechanical...
Accelerometer-based system for the detection of lameness in horses. Video-based kinematic analysis of gait in horses is accurate for quantification of lameness and reliable for identification of the affected limb. Algorithms for the measurement of the vertical head and pelvic displacement and phase correlation with vertical displacement of one forelimb and hindlimb foot have been developed for this purpose. However, because of camera field-of-view limitations, video-based analysis of gait can only be reliably accomplished with the horse constrained to move on a treadmill. This paper describes the use of 2 single-axis accelerometers and 2 gyroscopic transducers...
The role of complementary techniques in managing musculoskeletal pain in performance horses. The locomotor system requires normal movement for normal function. Movement restrictions of soft tissues and joints stimulate nociceptive pathways in the corresponding vertebral segment. Reflex-induced alterations of sensory and motor neuron activity within the segment lead to detrimental changes within many of the tissues associated with and distant from the area. Manual therapy is utilized in both diagnosis and treatment of tissue and joint movement restrictions. Early recognition and treatment of dysfunction in the equine athlete prevents permanent pathology and facilitates performance exce...
Horseback riding in children with cerebral palsy: effect on gross motor function. The effects of recreational horseback riding therapy (HBRT) on gross motor function in children with cerebral palsy (CP: spastic diplegia, spastic quadriplegia, and spastic hemiplegia) were determined in a blinded study using the Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM). Seventeen participants (nine females, eight males; mean age 9 years 10 months, SE 10 months) served as their own control. Their mean Gross Motor Function Classification System score was 2.7 (SD 0.4; range 1 to 5). HBRT was 1 hour per week for three riding sessions of 6 weeks per session (18 weeks). GMFM was determined every 6 weeks...