## Overview Primary back muscle strain is the most common riding-related back problem. Overwork, poor saddle fit, or rider imbalance strains the epaxial muscles. Horses show sensitivity on palpation, a hollow back under saddle, resistance to transitions, a short choppy stride, and tail swishing. Movement often improves without a rider. ## Causes Overuse, ill-fitting tack, or asymmetric loading. ## Diagnosis Palpation, observation under saddle, and exclusion of bony pathology. ## Treatment Rest, anti-inflammatories, physiotherapy, saddle-fit correction, and gradual return to work. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good with appropriate management. ## Prevention Correct saddle fit, balanced riding, and progressive conditioning.
sensitivity along the back; hollowed back under saddle; resistance to transitions; short choppy stride; tail swishing; better without rider
## Overview Primary back muscle strain is the most common riding-related back problem. Overwork, poor saddle fit, or rider imbalance strains the epaxial muscles. Horses show sensitivity on palpation, a hollow back under saddle, resistance to transitions, a short choppy stride, and tail swishing. Movement often improves without a rider. ## Causes Overuse, ill-fitting tack, or asymmetric loading. ## Diagnosis Palpation, observation under saddle, and exclusion of bony pathology. ## Treatment Rest, anti-inflammatories, physiotherapy, saddle-fit correction, and gradual return to work. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good with appropriate management. ## Prevention Correct saddle fit, balanced riding, and progressive conditioning.
sensitivity along the back; hollowed back under saddle; resistance to transitions; short choppy stride; tail swishing; better without rider