Degeneration involves changes in the discs’ color, texture, and integrity due to age and possibly use, researchers said.
Researchers in the United Kingdom are hoping owners of horses diagnosed with or suspected of having back problems will complete a survey for a study in progress.
Horseback riding requires healthy backs–not just for horses but also humans. In fact, human back health can have direct implications on equine back health, as well as the horse’s welfare and performance.
Funtional electrical stimulation, or FES, might help reduce back pain in horses with asymmetric multifidi muscles, researchers found.
Vets discussed kissing spines, memory foam, English and Western saddle fit, rider weight, rein lameness, and more.
Having your saddle fit is paramount to your horse’s comfort and soundness.
Most respondents said their horses’ comfort is the most important factor when choosing a saddle pad.
Articles on laminitis, colic, hoof abscesses, licking and chewing, and wound care are among the most-read in 2017.
Rider biomechanics significantly impact horse biomechanics, affecting performance, musculoskeletal health, and welfare.
Lameness was the most common issue ride vets found, but 48% of affected horses had no further vet exams or treatment.
The program will focus on the latest research, from equine pain recognition to rider posture and equine biomechanics.
After four weeks of resistance band training, horses showed less unwanted vertebral movement along the back.
Objective measurements can lead to more targeted therapy and provide a basis for comparison as the horse improves.
Of the 755 respondents, 209 (28%) said foot-related lameness is their biggest equine lameness concern.
Changes in force distribution, combined with saddle fit, have a big impact on equine back health, for better or worse.
Learn how the all-important equine back functions and how to prevent problems from developing.
Stay on top of the most recent Horse Health news with
