Winstrol use and soreness

[lilbrownpony]

I recently got an OTTB straight from the racetrack in October. I brought her back to the boarding stable to see if she’d need any let down time or a little vacation, but she was very calm, quiet etc so I started riding her.

After about a month and a half she got really hind end sore. Mostly the “lower back” area and all on her rump. (Background: all xrays and vet exam on purchase were clean). So right now we’re on grass pasture turnout and laser/massage therapy etc to help with soreness.

My vet asked if the mare had gotten Winstrol on the track and that if she had with any regularity that coming off of it may be making her sore. I was just curious if anyone had any experience with horses who had previously had steroids while racing or horses that become body sore after coming off the track.

[judybigredpony]

Well it’s a banned substance isn’t it

[Laurierace]

I am not sure one can even get Winstrol anymore, but no, it should not make them sore when it is discontinued.

[LaurieB]

It’s banned for use during racing, but some trainers still use it theraputically. However I have not heard of Winstrol making a horse sore when discontinued. Considering where she’s uncomfortable, you might want to think of having her ovaries checked out.

[Laurierace]

I know a few years ago it was recommended that I give winstrol to a horse who was recovered from a severe infection but hadn’t regained his appetite despite gastrogard. They weren’t even able to get it compounded as something in it wasn’t being made anymore. That could have changed by now but I don’t think it has.

[Calamber]

It sounds to me like sacroiliac pain.

[beaujolais]

Being that it is a steroid, let’s look at it from the other direction. I’d think it’s not so much the coming off of it making her sore but they were using it to control a soreness.

[Laurierace]

[QUOTE=sonomacounty;7373944]
Being that it is a steroid, let’s look at it from the other direction. I’d think it’s not so much the coming off of it making her sore but they were using it to control a soreness.[/QUOTE]
I believe you are thinking of corticosteroids, Winstrol is an anabolic steroid.

[beaujolais]

That won’t help with soreness at all?

Ooopsie, sorry.

[Acertainsmile]

The calm and quiet part has me thinking that this mare did not recieve Winstrol. I’ve known several mares that turn down right nasty on steroids. Winstrol is used to increase appetite and help a horse “bounce back” after strenuous work. Also, remember you are riding her in a totally new way, horses at the track are used to lighter riders staying out of the tack for the most part. Riders weight (not saying you’re not light), different tack and a whole new way of going also can play a big part. I would also have a vet focus on stifles and hocks when being evaluated.