## Overview Poll dysfunction is stiffness or pain at the junction of the head and neck, often involving the suboccipital muscles. Horses resist poll flexion, have uneven rein contact, and may head-shake. Dental problems, temporomandibular joint pain, or bit issues frequently contribute. ## Causes Muscle tension, dental disease, temporomandibular joint pain, or training-related overflexion. ## Diagnosis Palpation, dental examination, and observation under saddle. ## Treatment Address dental or temporomandibular issues, physiotherapy, and modification of training. Anti-inflammatories for acute pain. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good when the underlying cause is corrected. ## Prevention Regular dental care and balanced training.
difficulty flexing at the poll; resistance to the bit; head shaking; uneven rein contact
## Overview Poll dysfunction is stiffness or pain at the junction of the head and neck, often involving the suboccipital muscles. Horses resist poll flexion, have uneven rein contact, and may head-shake. Dental problems, temporomandibular joint pain, or bit issues frequently contribute. ## Causes Muscle tension, dental disease, temporomandibular joint pain, or training-related overflexion. ## Diagnosis Palpation, dental examination, and observation under saddle. ## Treatment Address dental or temporomandibular issues, physiotherapy, and modification of training. Anti-inflammatories for acute pain. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good when the underlying cause is corrected. ## Prevention Regular dental care and balanced training.
difficulty flexing at the poll; resistance to the bit; head shaking; uneven rein contact