08/15/2025
Case Summary –
*Unilateral Facial Paralysis in Horse*
A gelding presented with partial unilateral facial paralysis involving the ear, eyelid, and lips following an unknown traumatic incident. The accident also resulted in neck pain and swelling. Due to the loss of eyelid function, the horse developed ulceration.
The vet treated for the eye and provided laser therapy and acupuncture, with minimal improvement noted.
Initial ERT/ Osteopath Session
During my first session, I conducted a thorough assessment to identify the structures affected and determine appropriate treatment while considering the presence of heat and swelling. As swelling and heat were present around C1, mobilization was contraindicated without radiographic evaluation. Treatment began with techniques to move fluid away from the upper neck, oscillation of the lower cervical vertebrae, craniosacral therapy, and other therapies. The following day, the owner reported reduced swelling around the eye.
Follow-Up Session
Two weeks later, the paralysis persisted, and the ocular condition had worsened. I adjusted my approach to specifically target the facial paralysis, using a Traditional Chinese Medicine–based strategy. I selected points associated with facial paralysis, monitoring the feel, the horse’s responses, and the meridian/organ relationships of points with high or low reactions.
Outcome
Within 24 hours of this session, the owner observed a marked improvement in facial mobility, reporting that the horse appeared “almost back to normal.” Photographs confirmed substantial change. The veterinarian subsequently prescribed a new eye medication, which has further supported the eye's healing.
Using multiple therapies allows us to address your horse’s needs from different angles, creating a more complete and effective path to recovery. This holistic approach supports the body’s natural healing systems, leading to deeper, longer-lasting results and helping with conditions that are often thought to be untreatable through conventional methods alone.