Potential Causes of Problem Areas in Horses

Back problems in horses can arise for a variety of reasons which may be acute (sudden) or chronic (medium to long term). Some common causes are listed below:

Acute causes

• Slipping or falling when ridden or in the field
• Slipping or falling when travelling
• Getting cast in the stable
• Hitting/falling at a jump

Chronic causes

• Badly fitting tack
• Poor foot balance/farriery
• Teeth problems
• Unsuitably weighted rider
• Unbalanced rider
• Conformational faults
• Repetitive/ demanding work
• On-going problem from previous injury/illness