Back Pain in Horses: What Vets Look For

Back pain in horses is a common but often overlooked cause of changes in behaviour, performance, and comfort. Because horses are prey animals, they may not always show obvious signs of pain, instead presenting with subtle changes that are easy to miss or misinterpret.

Understanding what vets look for when assessing back pain can help owners recognise when something isn’t quite right.

Common Signs of Back Pain

Back pain can present in many ways, including:

• Resistance when being tacked up

• Girthiness or sensitivity around the saddle area

• Changes in behaviour or attitude

• Poor or inconsistent performance

• Difficulty bending or maintaining rhythm

• Bucking, rearing, or reluctance to move forward

• Muscle tension or uneven muscle development

These signs are often gradual and may worsen over time.

What Causes Back Pain in Horses?

Back pain is rarely caused by a single issue and often involves multiple contributing factors.

1. Saddle Fit

Poorly fitting saddles are a very common cause of back pain. A saddle that pinches, bridges, or creates uneven pressure can lead to muscle soreness and behavioural changes.

2. Muscular Strain or Weakness

Horses that lack topline strength or are returning to work may develop muscle soreness, particularly if workload increases too quickly.

3. Underlying Lameness

Pain in the limbs can cause a horse to alter the way it moves, placing extra strain on the back. Treating the back alone will not resolve the issue if the primary problem is elsewhere.

4. Spinal or Pelvic Issues

Conditions affecting the spine or pelvis, such as joint inflammation or reduced mobility, can also contribute to back pain.

How Do Vets Assess Back Pain?

A veterinary assessment typically includes:

History and Observation

Your vet will ask about:

• Changes in behaviour or performance

• Saddle fit and recent adjustments

• Workload and exercise routine

The horse will be observed at rest, in hand, and sometimes under saddle.

Physical Examination

This may involve:

• Palpation of the back and muscles

• Assessing range of motion

• Identifying areas of pain or tension

• Checking symmetry and muscle development

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Lameness Evaluation

As back pain is often secondary to limb issues, a lameness examination may be performed to rule out primary causes.

Diagnostic Imaging

Depending on findings, your vet may recommend:

• Ultrasound

• X-rays

• Further investigations

These help identify specific structures involved and guide treatment.

Treatment and Management

Treatment will depend on the underlying cause and may include:

• Rest or modified exercise

• Physiotherapy or rehabilitation programmes

• Saddle fit adjustments

• Medication or joint therapies

• Addressing any underlying lameness

A team approach involving your vet, saddle fitter, and therapist often achieves the best outcome.

When Should You Call the Vet?

You should seek veterinary advice if:

• Behaviour or performance changes persist

• Your horse becomes girthy or reactive when tacked up

• You notice muscle loss or asymmetry

• Pain worsens or affects ridden work

Early intervention can prevent minor issues becoming long-term problems.

In Summary

Back pain is a complex issue that often reflects a combination of saddle fit, muscular development, and underlying lameness. A thorough veterinary assessment is key to identifying the cause and creating an effective treatment plan.

If you are concerned about your horse’s back or performance, please contact the practice for advice or to arrange an examination.