Star

Physiotherapy Report – Initial Notes and Exercises Subjective: Star presents with a combination of muscular stiffness, joint restriction, and gait abnormalities consistent with age-related changes and possible compensation patterns. She is of a good healthy weight and previous history of chronic sinusitis. Recent observations include increased “dipping” on the long lines/lunge and difficulty cantering. Shoes due tomorrow, overgrown at toe and increased loading at the heels. Objective:         Right cervical trapezius: Reactive to palpation, indicating tension or muscle discomfort. Cervical 3-5: Restricted to the right, likely contributing to muscle guarding and limited range of motion. Forelimb hoof rotation: Painful reaction with rotation, suggesting discomfort or joint stiffness, most likely due to arthritis diagnosed previously Shoulder flexion: Limited bilaterally, most likely linked to trapezius restrictions and increased loading on forelimbs Longissimus and iliocostalis (bilaterally): Reactive to palpation – not been in much ridden work so unlikely to be saddle related. Middle gluteal: Increased tone, suggesting muscle guarding or overuse. Extended pelvis causing extended back posture. Hindlimb flexion and retraction: Reduced, which may be due to stiffness or pain in the hip region/SI region Left hindlimb lateral horn worn: Due to medial placement of the left hindlimb, indicating a habitual weight-bearing pattern. Gait Assessment:    Walk: Right pelvic drop, narrow behind, tracks up until turning, stilted on the turn. Mildly lame left forelimb with external rotation of the forelimbs. Trot: Left pelvic drop, mild. Forward and willing. Hindlimb movement: Narrow movement with both hindlimbs, indicating reduced stride width and possible instability or discomfort proximally. Plan: 1. Exercise and Rehabilitation Plan: o Neck and Cervical Exercises:  Gentle neck stretches (lateral and vertical) to increase mobility in cervical 3-5. . o o Core and Back Exercises:  Targeted strengthening of the longissimus and iliocostalis with controlled stretches Pelvic and Hindlimb Mobilization:  Gradual hindlimb stretches and flexion exercises to increase mobility in the hip joint.  Slow walking over poles to encourage proper hindlimb movement and wider stride.