Sore Back Horses

Recently a horse was brought to Stamina Plus’s Research facility to evaluate a problem with the horse seeming to not have enough energy to compete in cutting.

A complete physical exam was preformed which included a CBC, stool exam and blood Chemistry. The stool exam was negative for worm eggs and all blood tests were normal.

A Thermography Scan was completed on the horse which resulted in a positive result of 20 degrees increase in heat in the posterior Loin muscles. This area was also sensitive to digital pressure.

Therefore the diagnosis of muscle pain was established and because of the back pain the horse did not want to perform as expected.

The take home message from this horse is that saddle and saddle pad fit is important in preventing injuries.