Horse: Delilah
Age/Breed: 18-year-old Thoroughbred mare
Owner Concerns at Intake
History of cribbing
Hind end weakness and discomfort
General body tension
Episodes of head shaking
Initial Assessment (August – First Visit)
Posture & Movement: Hind end lacked strength and engagement; stiffness through the lumbar and sacral regions.
Palpation Findings: Tension in the hindquarters, tenderness in longissimus dorsi, and fascial tightness through the shoulders.
Owner Report: Cribbing noted as a persistent habit; general discomfort.
Plan Initiated: Begin with massage therapy, myofascial release, and targeted work on the hindquarters.
Treatment Timeline & Observations
Early Sessions (August – September)
Focused on hind end: biceps femoris, gluteals, and longissimus dorsi.
Achieved several releases with massage and myofascial techniques.
Cribbing appeared to lessen per owner’s report.
Overall improvement in hind end strength — less time required each session on the same areas.
Notable Reactions:
Some tenderness upon palpation (esp. left rhomboid and right trapezius) but responsive to massage.
Mild reactions in sacral region initially, later reduced.
Midway Sessions (September)
Significant improvement noted in hindquarters — quicker releases, fewer problem areas.
Horse presented with episodes of head shaking. Addressed through cervical and poll work, fascia release, and relaxation techniques.
Owner reported considerable improvement in overall comfort and behavior.
Collaboration plan set with Dr. Langley (chiropractic care + bodywork).
Unique Trends:
Some days regression in attitude and willingness, but overall pattern improved.
Incredible releases observed — deep breathing, licking/chewing, postural changes.
Recent Sessions (Late September)
Hind end continued to require less intervention.
Improved demeanor: more relaxed, more willing to engage, fewer negative reactions.
Body balance and topline showing signs of rebuilding.
Modalities Used
Massage Therapy – consistent foundation of care.
Myofascial Release – targeted for fascial restrictions.
Cold Laser Therapy – as indicated, focused on sore or inflamed regions.
Kinesiology Taping – for decompression and circulation support.
Post-Session Assessments – observation of movement, willingness, and owner feedback.
Overall Progress
Hind end weakness has notably improved — requires less intervention each session.
Cribbing reduced per owner report.
Episodes of head shaking addressed with poll and neck work.
Overall demeanor improved: calmer, less reactive, more willing.
Consistent positive releases indicate successful interventions.
Summary Statement
Delilah has made remarkable progress since beginning treatment. Initial concerns around hind end weakness, cribbing, and overall tension have lessened, with noticeable improvements in both physical condition and demeanor. Through consistent bodywork sessions, she has shown significant releases, improved balance, and greater comfort, setting a strong foundation for continued wellness and performance.
