How to Check Your Horse for Back Pain

Back pain can have numerous causes. It is commonly caused by poor saddle fit but can also be caused by sore hocks or stifle joints. Signs that your horse is in pain may include behavioral changes, such as: pinning ears, tail swishing, bucking, resistance to going forward, refusing jumps, and rearing.

You can check for back pain yourself by applying approximately three pounds of pressure approximately four inches lateral to the center of your horse’s back (see diagram). Use a rounded, smooth object (like a pen with a rounded cap) and apply pressure from shoulder to tail.

Compare your horse’s reaction from one side to another (looking for symmetry). You can also compare his reaction to that of other horses. If your horse is very reactive, back pain may be the issue. If he reacts only in the saddle area, have your saddle checked for fit.

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