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Back pain in horses - how to recognise and treat it

If your horse has back pain, you probably want nothing more than to help the animal. However, it can be difficult to identify the problem. Horses with back pain often do not show clear signs that they are in pain. It is also important to find a treatment method that suits 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 you recognise back pain in horses?

If a horse has back pain, you can notice this in various ways. Some horses will show symptoms of pain more quickly than others. These are some of the symptoms of back pain in horses:

Change in posture when walking, standing or riding;
Different or sensitive reactions to touch;
Changes in behaviour, 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. Is the animal reacting differently than normal? If so, it may be useful to consult a veterinarian.

What does a horse do when it has back pain?

Above, we have listed the symptoms of back pain in horses. However, it is also possible that your horse does not express the pain in these ways. Perhaps the horse exhibits behavioural changes such as irritability, aggression or fear. 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 wrong.

What back problems can a horse have?

Horses can suffer from various back problems. These problems can range from easily resolvable ailments to serious conditions. Below you can read about common back problems in horses:

Muscle pain;
Kissing spine;
Spinal abnormalities;
Loss of muscle mass;
Joint problems;
Writing problems;
Arthritis.

If you suspect that your horse has one of these conditions, it is important to consult your vet. Only they can determine the cause and condition.

Can a horse have a herniated disc?

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

A herniated disc occurs when the intervertebral discs are damaged or bulge out. These intervertebral discs serve as shock absorbers between the vertebrae. A herniated disc can put pressure on the nerves in the spinal cord. It can also cause pain, weakness and neurological symptoms.

What should I do if my horse has back pain?

If you suspect that your horse has back pain, it is important to do something about it. This will allow you to provide comfort to the animal and ensure a good recovery. Fortunately, there are many things you can do if your horse is suffering from back pain. Always consult a vet so that he or she can carry out the appropriate examinations.

Adjustments and rest

Back pain can also be caused by, for example, an ill-fitting saddle. 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 a while and ensure limited movement so that the animal can recover properly.

Physiotherapy and chiropractic

A physiotherapist or chiropractor can help with the recovery process. Physiotherapy can consist of massage, stretching and other specific exercises to strengthen muscles and improve mobility. Chiropractic can help to improve structural problems in the spine.

Red light therapy

Red light therapy, also known as low level laser therapy, can help your horse combat pain and discomfort. Laser therapy for your horse can help reduce inflammation, improve blood circulation and heal damaged tissue. This therapy is increasingly being used in horses for various conditions, including back pain.

Back pain in horses and low-level laser therapy

Low level laser therapy can be a useful tool for your horse. It is increasingly being used as a (complementary) treatment for back pain in horses. It can offer several benefits in the treatment of back pain. For example, it can provide pain relief, inhibit inflammation and promote the healing process. Here are some ways in which laser therapy can help your horse:

Pain relief through the release of endorphins;
Anti-inflammatory effect;
Improved blood circulation, resulting in a better supply of nutrients and oxygen;
Stimulation of cell regeneration, which ensures a faster healing process.

Laser therapy treatment for horses can also be used as a supplement to other treatments. In this way, it can ensure a faster healing process and pain relief for your beloved animal.

Red light therapy and science

The use of low-level laser therapy, also known as red light therapy, has been scientifically proven. This therapy uses laser devices with a special frequency of low-power light energy. This light interacts with the tissues in your body, reducing pain, swelling, inflammation and various conditions. This therapy can be used on both humans and animals.

What can PowerCure do for your horse?

The PowerCure laser has already helped many horses to reduce pain, complaints and conditions. We have also been able to help several horses with back pain. You can purchase the PowerCure (Pro) laser yourself for home use. This means your horse does not have to leave the stable for this treatment. And it is not only a useful tool for your horse. You can also use the laser yourself for almost any complaint you may have. This makes it a useful device for everyone in your household!

Would you like more information about the PowerCure (Pro) laser and how it can help your horse? Then take a look here.

shop the PowerCure laser here

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