## Overview Spinal stiffness and proprioceptive loss result from atrophy or dysfunction of the deep spinal stabilizer muscles. Horses show generalized back stiffness, poor lateral flexibility, subtle incoordination, and difficulty with precise lateral movements. Stiffness is often worse when cold and may improve with targeted mobilization. ## Causes Chronic back pain leading to multifidus atrophy, or primary neurologic disease. ## Diagnosis Clinical observation and neurologic examination. Imaging rules out structural lesions. ## Treatment Targeted mobilization and core-strengthening exercises. Treat any underlying pain. ## Recovery and Prognosis Improves with consistent rehabilitation. ## Prevention Early treatment of back pain and inclusion of core work.
generalized back stiffness; poor lateral flexibility; subtle incoordination; difficulty with precise lateral movements; worse when cold
## Overview Spinal stiffness and proprioceptive loss result from atrophy or dysfunction of the deep spinal stabilizer muscles. Horses show generalized back stiffness, poor lateral flexibility, subtle incoordination, and difficulty with precise lateral movements. Stiffness is often worse when cold and may improve with targeted mobilization. ## Causes Chronic back pain leading to multifidus atrophy, or primary neurologic disease. ## Diagnosis Clinical observation and neurologic examination. Imaging rules out structural lesions. ## Treatment Targeted mobilization and core-strengthening exercises. Treat any underlying pain. ## Recovery and Prognosis Improves with consistent rehabilitation. ## Prevention Early treatment of back pain and inclusion of core work.
generalized back stiffness; poor lateral flexibility; subtle incoordination; difficulty with precise lateral movements; worse when cold