Apache had some visitors on Thursday. Dr. LeBlanc, DVM, is also a Certified American Veterinary Chiropractic Associate. She was here to examine Apache’s lameness and give her some adjustments to help her feel better.
After examining Apache, testing her feet and watching her walk and move, Dr. LeBlanc suggested giving my mare a Palmar Digital Nerve Block to diagnose if Apache has heel pain and/or navicular issues. Dr. LeBlanc did seem to think that the nerve block made a 50-60% difference in her movement, but I noticed that she was still favoring that same leg and shoulder walking uphill. So, we moved ahead to the chiro adjustments hoping they would give my mare some relief from her stiff shoulder and leg.
Here are the videos I took during Apache’s adjustments.
Soon after the chiro work was done, Apache looked very relaxed and after we removed her halter she walked right over to me and began licking my arm for at least 3-5 minutes! And then Apache stood there beside me while I talked with the vet about her diagnosis and prognosis. I think Apache mare really appreciated the care and attention everyone gave her.
It’s been two days and Apache does seem to be moving slightly better, but Dr. LeBlanc says it usually takes a few days until you notice a big difference. And Apache may still need more adjustments, too. Dr. LeBlanc seems to think that after my farrier gives my mare a trim next week, specifically to address the pain and stiffness she’s been having, that I’ll notice an even bigger difference in Apache’s movement. I sure hope so. I’m worried about my girl and I also hope she’ll be rideable by this month’s Halloween ACTHA ride. Positive thoughts and prayers, please?
18 comments :
Aww...what a sweet mare you have. thanks for sharing the videos! I've never seen a horse get adjusted...Daisy has never needed it (and I'm thankful! can't imagine it's cheap...). Hope it helps Apache!
Good, no GREAT thoughts headed your way from Washington State. Chiropractic work fascinates me. I took a "alternative medicine" seminar years and years ago where we explored everything from bodywork to flower essences. I say, do what you can afford to do. And learn from your doctors, they are a wealth of education.
I hope Apache continues to improve. Also, was the nerve block a temporary one?
How tall as Dr. LeBlanc??
Poor Apache!
Thanks for the kind words Mellie and Sandy!
Thank you Shirley,
Yes, the nerve block was just temporary to help diagnose pain.
FV,
Well, I didn't have a measuring tape with me, but Dr. LeBlanc is taller than me. But she seems even taller because her assistant is very short. Even shorter than you. Why are you asking?
~Lisa
That was fascinating to watch. And Apache was so calm and trusting; she shows again again what a great mare she is. I do hope she is more comfortable and fit very soon!
I (sort of) gave you a blog award; only claim it if you want to bother with all the attached rules. But I thought I'd at least be polite enough to let you know I mentioned your blog again. :)
I've never seen a horse have an adjustment. Thanks for the videos! I hope she feels better for your ride.
that was fascinating, getting to see the doctor working on her. i wish more horsey bloggers would do informative films like this! i've been trying to learn some horse massage via the internet lately, and it is interesting to me to see what my horse responds to, and what he walks away from.
i hope she feels better soon for you.
i love that she licks you, what an adorable affectionate behavior!
~lytha
Estes *hates* being adjusted, but feels better afterward. She's not rude about it and stands nicely, but you can tell by the looks she gives the doc that she's not pleased with his quick movements even if she does feel better after.
Hope the adjustment helps .I know with the Osteopath work I have had done ,I see some imediate effect then steady inprovement for up to 3 weeks
Both are flying your way as I type!
Oh, I'm so glad you posted those videos. It helps me get a better idea of what to expect. I really hope that's all Apache needed and you'll see a marked improvement soon.
That can make a huge difference to a horse, and they really do seem to appreciate it, and once they've had it they understand that it's going to help and are very cooperative. It's very nice that you're willing to help her in all these ways.
Well I hope you do get to ride at the end of the month. Ladybug and I will be there for both days. Hope we can see you on the trail.
Watching the Chiro work on horses is so interesting. Our horses at work get adjusted monthly, if needed. While at horse shows, we also get them adjusted there.
I sure hope Apache improves. I know it must be so hard not being able to ride her. Apache is such a cutie! I hope you get to go on your ride!
Oh, wow! She really did adjust her! Just like going to a person's chiropractor! That was interesting to watch and thank you for sharing the videos! I do hope she feels better!!!
Oh, I hope Apache gets better soon. Gilly has been worked on before and he really liked it.
Apache is such a sweetie!
hugs...
jane
Lovely friend,
I'm so glad that you had some work done on her! It will certainly make her feel better...you too,getting some answers.
Do you have a line on a soft tissue expert, as well? Bones are stupid, and muscle has"memory", is the general rule.
I do pray that your mare comes up good...and being able to do that ride , would be the bonus!
Hang in there Liss. Setbacks can be many, but we all do know them...doesn't make it easier. Pulling for you from here!!
XO
Kac
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