In which we're still trudging and there are needles everywhere

I haven't been writing because...well, because nothing interesting

is happening.  That's not a bad thing.  

Exactly 4 weeks ago, Fiddle took a gorky step and strained/sprained her LH superficial flexor tendon.

We have been carefully following the vet's instructions since that time:  mostly stall rest + small grazing paddock, and hand-walks 2xdaily.  

Photo taken today, 4.22.2018  Swelling greatly reduced, much less "canckle"

We are now up to 15 minutes of "trudging" around the yard twice daily.  Fee likes the part where she can grab fresh green grass as we walk.  

I like the part where...no, actually.  I don't enjoy it.  It isn't the most unpleasant part of my day, but I will be happy when she is able to exercise herself again!

To possibly hasten that day, we have help from Patty.

"Doctor Patty, did you bring me cookies?"

Patty is currently taking a course to become certified in veterinary acupuncture.  It's a bucket ton of classroom time, study at home, and hands-on practice putting needles in animals who need help.

Tongue: purple, wet.  

Animals like...the Dragon!

Permission point Bai-hui, also good for rear end issues.

(Counting spaces between ribs) 1, 2, 3...no, no, no...17, 16, 15...um 3 off dorsal midline....

During the first session, Fee was a bit nervous.  So was Patty.  One does not casually stick needles into the butt of a Dragon!

For the second session, everyone was more relaxed.

"You insert needles in that end.  Then insert cookies in this end!"

We take video before and after each treatment.  Interestingly, both of the "after" videos show a little more hesitation to walk at first, although that shakes out after a dozen strides or so.  Standing still for an hour makes me a little stiff, too!

Here are links to videos:

Last week - before treatment
Last week - after treatment

Today - before treatment
Today - after treatment

And here is a photo of Patty's notes, for people (like Dr. Fehr!) who know what they mean.

Overall, Fiddle is showing improvement.  The "canckle" swelling in that leg is significantly reduced.  It's still warmer than the other leg, but not hot.  She is moving much more freely, and once again landing toe-first when walking downhill.  She is also moving much more symmetrically. 

This morning she kicked at a goat (they are so annoying!!!) and stepped down wrong--and then did that "owie - owie - owie" movement that is very familiar to me after two hip surgeries that resulted in major hip flexor tendon damage.  But, in the way that is also familiar to me, the intense pain stops in a minute, and life goes on. 

I am prepping for a gig at the Festival of Fairies next weekend. 
The goats and the Dragon will not be attending.

So:  onward we trudge. 

Things may not be GOOD, but they could be a lot worse. 

And until my horse and I are back out on the trails together, I'll be spending more time with...

I gotta put ears on this thing, somehow....