When back pain is not back pain

[DebO]

I found an interesting article on the web by Douglas Novick "when back pain is not back pain". Just type in his name and scroll down to lameness.

This is why it's always important to get the vet out first before any other treatment is carried out. I know most therapists will tell the client that the vet has to be asked first because of the Vet Act (plus the horse's history is important) but I know of a "back person" who treats horses and isn't qualified, and people seem happy to use this person without their vets knowledge.

DebO

[gill2809]

I totally agree with you here. When ever I assess a horse I look at he 'whole' horse & check all clinical signs before making any suggestion of back pain or lameness. I have to say, most of the time my clients are vet referrals as the vets just don't have the specialised knowledge of soft tissue injuries & are happy for a fresh pair of eyes....

We have a number of unqualified & unprofessional 'back people' in our area too. It's such a shame that highly qualified individuals have to share the same stamp as those that aren't!

Interesting articles though.