All horses can have sore backs at some point in their lives. What are some of the causes of back soreness, and how is it treated?
Sore backs come from an ill-fitting saddle, rider imbalance, and overwork and overtraining. Horses also acquire a sore back as a side effect from another injury. Treatment includes steroid and or NSAID injections, chiropractic care, and electrotherapy. The intensity of treatment changes with the severity of injury.
Since sore backs are common, understanding basic treatment will help you provide better care for your horse. Learn more about back soreness by continuing below.
Sore Back Causes
Horses experience sore backs in two main muscle groups. The longissimus muscles run all along the topline and are a major source of strength. The multifidus muscle is hidden within the spine and helps attach the spinal vertebrae. It provides a wider support system for the whole back.
A poor-fitting saddle is one of the key reasons for back soreness. If the tree or other parts of the saddle place too much pressure across the back, it will be sore after consistent use. Lack of rider balance can also contribute. Riders who consistently place more weight in one seat bone over the other, for example, risk placing more pressure than needed on one part of the back, leading to soreness. Overwork or overtraining puts unnecessary strain on the back.
Sore Back Treatment
The mode of treatment for sore backs depends on pain severity. Chiropractic care and electrotherapy provide immediate relief and loosen sore muscles. The effects of the treatment are not long-lasting, so horses need consistent sessions. Using a water treadmill is another effective alternative therapy because the water is a low-impact tool to strengthen the back muscles.
Severe pain calls for injections of NSAIDS and or other anti-inflammatory medications. In the most extreme cases, surgery to remove excess bony structures from the spine relieves pain and pressure.
Immune supplements like BioPro Armour help speed the healing of sore backs because the immunity boost reduces inflammation while assisting immune cells with the healing process. Thymic proteins and zinc work together to keep your horse healthy and happy. Try it the next time your horse has a sore back. we promise you won’t regret it!