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Discussion on Roached Back

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Susan Elliott
Member
Username: Susan1

Post Number: 36
Registered: 10-2000
Posted on Wednesday, Apr 30, 2003 - 12:04 pm:   Edit PostPrint Post
Hi Dr. O,

I recently purchased a yearling Friesian colt. He came to me with a hunch back...no other way to describe it. I have had the vet look at it, he tells me he has a spinal malformation. The hump is right about where the back of the saddle will some day sit. My vet was pretty nonchalant about it, said my only issue will be proper saddle fit when he's older.

The colt moves beautifully, lots of extension, lots of rear impulsion. He has great neck flexion to both sides, and this doesn't seem to impair his abilities in the slightest.

My questions are:
1) Is there something I should do nutritionally to help him?
2) Should I pursue treatment for him more aggressively?
3) Should I just relax and try to overlook his hump, and prepare for a good saddle fitting when he's older?

Any other advice?

Thanks,

Susan
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Robert N. Oglesby DVM
Moderator
Username: Dro

Post Number: 8290
Registered: 1-1997
Posted on Wednesday, Apr 30, 2003 - 6:46 pm:   Edit PostPrint Post
Hello Susan,
Quiet frankly if the colt is not as represented I would return it.

If you would like to pursue it however, a good set of radiographs is indicated to determine exactly what is wrong. Really all you see on the top line is mainly defined by the dorsal spinous processes of the vertebrae and the surrounding musculature. Malformation of those may be associated with normal vertebral alignment and due to trauma or congenital disease.
DrO
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Susan Elliott
Member
Username: Susan1

Post Number: 37
Registered: 10-2000
Posted on Wednesday, Apr 30, 2003 - 11:00 pm:   Edit PostPrint Post
Thanks Dr. O. I've considered returning the colt, but as it is now, I'm attached, and fairly convinced that he would not receive proper treatment with his original owner.

So, that leaves me with option 2. I'll contact the U of MN and see if they can give me a hand with the radiographs.
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