Equine Health

Lameness

Back Pain: Is your horse affected?

Your horse has been “off” for a few weeks. A normally willing horse, he now balks at work and will occasionally buck or refuse to move off. He exhibits intermittent lameness that responds to Bute, but resumes when the drug is discontinued. After a few months he has not improved. Sound familiar? Your horse may be suffering from chronic back pain. The causes of a sore back can be numerous (fractured vertebrae, improper saddle fit, inflammation of muscles and ligaments, or strain from a limb lameness), and the key to getting the problem treated is an accurate diagnosis.

A thorough physical examination is essential to differentiate between soreness related to compensation for a limb lameness versus direct trauma to the back. The use of ultrasound imaging is helpful as it allows the veterinarian to actually “see” the vertebrae, muscles, and soft tissue. Acupuncture is used as a complimentary technique in our practice and has helped many horses with debilitating back pain to return to competition. In addition, our practice has begun using thermographic imaging. This new technology is demonstrated by the thermograph on the left. The white and red areas represent pressure sores resulting from an improperly fitting saddle. The thermographic scanner can also be used directly on the saddle to highlight asymmetry and problem areas.

Treatment to alleviate back pain is based on resolving the cause. If a limb lameness is involved, then this must be treated before the back can be healed. A bad-fitting saddle should be replaced. Inflammation of the muscles and ligaments can be treated with acupuncture, steroid injections, massage therapy and rest. Our practice is also equipped with a Versatron shock wave machine which can be very instrumental in healing sore backs. Whatever the cause, the greatest chance of treatment success is dependent upon an accurate diagnosis and the institution of the proper treatment plan.