20/11/2025
Back pain in horses is a common issue that can have many contributing factors, including saddle fit, biomechanics, fitness, and training. Conditioning the horse appropriately helps protect the back.
Signs to watch for include:
-Abnormal response to back pressure (grooming, tacking, mounting, etc.)
-Short-strided gait
-Girthiness
-Behavioral changes (rearing, bucking, etc.)
-Reluctance to engage the hindquarters
Addressing back pain promptly allows horses to recover faster, reduces treatment time and costs, and supports long-term comfort, soundness, and performance. Horses are naturally stoic, so subtle signs can easily be missed. Regular performance exams help catch issues early.