Johnny Walker: Rehab of Back Pain

Johnny Walker came to VRSVA because his owner was concerned about undiagnosed pain or potentially metabolic problems. This horse was unable to move forward under saddle and tucked into a tight ball whenever he was asked to go forward. After evaluation, our veterinary staff was concerned about back pain. He had two weeks before a recheck with his primary veterinarian, so we put this guy through an intensive rehabilitation program in hopes of either exacerbating problem areas (which would make diagnosis easier) or making him stronger and helping to alleviate his pain.

We used groundwork, the AquaPacer and ponying during trail rides to strengthen his back before asking him to carry a rider.   

In 17 days, Johnny Walker had:

  • 8 AquaPacer sessions

  • 12 lunges in the Equicore system

  • 10 trips across our trails, ponying in hand

  • Daily core exercises and stretching work

  • 15 vibration therapy sessions

  • 2 rides under saddle

His comfort improved significantly in just this short time! His before and after videos show his dramatic improvement. He is able to move forward more freely and is so much more relaxed. At home, his owner reported that he was much more willing under saddle. Keeping this boy strong through his topline musculature will be key to providing stability to his spine and to keeping him comfortable long term.

Johnny Walker movement before rehab.

Johnny Walker movement after rehab.