## Overview Iliopsoas strain is injury to the iliopsoas muscle group, which flexes the hip and stabilizes the lumbar spine. It causes a shortened hind-limb stride, reluctance to engage the hindquarters, and difficulty with canter departures or collection. Pain can be elicited on rectal palpation or seen on ultrasound. ## Causes Overload from steep hill work, sudden hip extension, collection, or slips. ## Diagnosis Clinical gait changes, pain on deep palpation or rectal examination, and ultrasound of the muscle. ## Treatment Rest, anti-inflammatories, and gradual rehabilitation with core-strengthening exercises. Avoid collection and steep hills until healed. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good with adequate rest. Return to full athletic work takes weeks to months. ## Prevention Progressive conditioning and avoidance of sudden maximal efforts.
shortened hind-limb stride; reluctance to engage hindquarters; pain on rectal palpation; difficulty with canter departures
## Overview Iliopsoas strain is injury to the iliopsoas muscle group, which flexes the hip and stabilizes the lumbar spine. It causes a shortened hind-limb stride, reluctance to engage the hindquarters, and difficulty with canter departures or collection. Pain can be elicited on rectal palpation or seen on ultrasound. ## Causes Overload from steep hill work, sudden hip extension, collection, or slips. ## Diagnosis Clinical gait changes, pain on deep palpation or rectal examination, and ultrasound of the muscle. ## Treatment Rest, anti-inflammatories, and gradual rehabilitation with core-strengthening exercises. Avoid collection and steep hills until healed. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good with adequate rest. Return to full athletic work takes weeks to months. ## Prevention Progressive conditioning and avoidance of sudden maximal efforts.
shortened hind-limb stride; reluctance to engage hindquarters; pain on rectal palpation; difficulty with canter departures