## Overview Post-surgical weakness refers to reduced core stability after back surgery, particularly for kissing spines. Even when the surgery is successful, the deep stabilizing muscles (multifidus) are often atrophied and need targeted rehabilitation. Return to work is slower without specific core-strengthening exercises. ## Causes Pre-existing muscle atrophy plus surgical recovery. ## Diagnosis Clinical assessment of topline and movement after surgery. ## Treatment Structured rehabilitation emphasizing multifidus activation, gradual increase in work, and monitoring for residual pain. ## Recovery and Prognosis Improved with specific exercises. Horses that skip rehabilitation have higher rates of ongoing sensitivity. ## Prevention Inclusion of core work in the post-operative plan.
slow return to work after back surgery; ongoing sensitivity; improved with core-strengthening exercises
## Overview Post-surgical weakness refers to reduced core stability after back surgery, particularly for kissing spines. Even when the surgery is successful, the deep stabilizing muscles (multifidus) are often atrophied and need targeted rehabilitation. Return to work is slower without specific core-strengthening exercises. ## Causes Pre-existing muscle atrophy plus surgical recovery. ## Diagnosis Clinical assessment of topline and movement after surgery. ## Treatment Structured rehabilitation emphasizing multifidus activation, gradual increase in work, and monitoring for residual pain. ## Recovery and Prognosis Improved with specific exercises. Horses that skip rehabilitation have higher rates of ongoing sensitivity. ## Prevention Inclusion of core work in the post-operative plan.
slow return to work after back surgery; ongoing sensitivity; improved with core-strengthening exercises