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Back pain in horses – This is how to recognize and treat it

If your horse has back pain, you probably want nothing more than to help the animal. Still, it can be difficult to identify the problem. A horse with back pain often does not show it clearly when they are in pain. It is also important to find a treatment method that fits your horse’s symptoms. We will tell you everything you need to know about back pain in horses, including the best tips for finding a treatment method.

How do I know if my horse has back pain?

If a horse has back pain, you may notice it in several ways. One horse will show symptoms of pain more quickly than another. These are some of the symptoms of back pain in horses:

  • Change in posture while walking, standing or driving;
  • Different or sensitive reactions when touched;
  • Changes in behavior, such as resistance during saddling;
  • Problems with movement such as stiffness or irregularities;
  • Changes in muscle mass along the back;
  • Refusal to perform certain movements;
  • Change in appetite.

It is important to keep a close eye on your horse. Does the animal react differently than normal? If so, it may be helpful to consult a veterinarian.

How do horses act when they have back pain?

Above, we have named a horse’s back pain symptoms. But it is also possible that your horse does not express pain in these ways. Perhaps the horse has behavioral changes such as irritability, aggression or anxiety. In addition, the animal may also react more sensitively to touch. So keep a close eye on this and take action if you think something is not right.

What kind of back problems can a horse get?

Horses can suffer from a variety of back problems. These complaints can range from easily solvable ailments to serious conditions. Below you will read about common back problems in horses:

  • Muscle pain;
  • Kissing Spine;
  • Spinal abnormalities;
  • Loss of muscle mass;
  • Joint problems;
  • Disk problems;
  • Arthritis.

If you suspect your horse has any of these conditions, it is important to consult your veterinarian. Only they can determine a cause and condition.

Can a horse have a hernia?

Yes, horses can certainly suffer from a back hernia. A herniated disc in horses is relatively rare with other back problems, but horses can also suffer from this condition.

A back hernia occurs when the intervertebral discs become damaged or bulge. These intervertebral discs serve as shock absorbers between the vertebrae. A herniated disc can cause pressure on nerves in the spinal cord. In addition, it can cause pain, weakness and neurological symptoms.

How can I help my horse with back pain?

If you suspect your horse has back pain, it is important to do something about it. This allows you to provide comfort to the animal and ensure proper recovery. Fortunately, there are a lot of things you can do if your horse’s back is troubled. Be sure to always consult a veterinarian so that he/she performs the proper examinations.

Adjustments and rest

Back pain can also be caused by an ill-fitting saddle, for example. Therefore, make sure you use the right equipment for your animal. In addition, it is important that the animal gets enough rest. For example, take the horse out of training for some time and provide limited exercise so the animal can recover properly.

Physical therapy and chiropractic

A physical therapist or chiropractor can help with the recovery process. Physical therapy may include massage, stretching and other specific exercises to strengthen muscles and improve mobility. Chiropractic care can help improve structural problems in the spine.

Red light therapy

Red light therapy, also called low level laser therapy, can help your horse fight pain and symptoms. Laser therapy for your horse can help reduce inflammation, improve blood circulation and heal damaged tissues. This therapy is increasingly used in horses for a variety of conditions, including back pain.

Back pain in horses and low level laser therapy

Low level laser therapy can be a good tool for your horse. It is increasingly used as a (complementary) treatment for back pain in horses. It can offer several benefits in treatment for back pain. Thus, it can provide pain relief, anti-inflammation and promote the healing process. These are some of the ways laser therapy can help your horse:

  • Pain relief through the release of endorphins;
  • Anti-inflammatory effect;
  • Improved blood circulation allowing better supply of nutrients and oxygen;
  • Stimulation of cell regeneration, which accelerates the healing process.

Equine laser therapy treatment can also be used as an adjunct to other treatments. In this way, it can provide a faster healing process and pain relief for your beloved pet.

Is there science behind red light therapy?

The use of low level laser therapy, also called red light therapy, is scientifically proven. This therapy uses laser devices with a special frequency of low-level laser light energy. This light creates interactions with the tissues in your body. This reduces pain, swelling, inflammation and various conditions. This therapy can be used in both humans and animals.

What can PowerCure do for your horse?

The PowerCure laser has already helped many horses reduce pain, complaints and conditions. Similarly, we have been able to help several horses with back pain. You can purchase the PowerCure (Pro) laser yourself for home use. Thus, your horse does not have to leave the barn for this treatment. And it’s not just a useful tool for your horse. You can use the laser itself, for virtually any complaint you may have. This makes it a convenient device for everyone in your household!

Want to learn more about the PowerCure (Pro) laser and what it can help your horse with? Then especially take a look here .