Kinematic evaluation of the back in fully functioning riding horses.
Authors: Johnston C, Holm K Roethlisberger, Erichsen C, Eksell P, Drevemo S
Journal: Equine veterinary journal
Summary
# Editorial Summary Johnston and colleagues established the first objective kinematic reference database for healthy equine backs by analysing spinal movement in 33 sound riding horses at walk and trot on a treadmill, measuring extension–flexion, lateral bending, lateral excursion and axial rotation at the thoracolumbar junction. The researchers discovered remarkably high symmetry values across all movement variables, though they identified significant differences related to discipline (dressage versus showjumping) and sex, with age showing a notable negative correlation to thoracolumbar extension–flexion capability. This work is particularly valuable for practitioners because it moves away from the subjective interpretation that currently dominates back pain diagnosis and rehabilitation; having normative kinematic data allows clinicians to objectively identify which horses deviate from healthy movement patterns and quantify the degree of dysfunction. The database's incorporation of relationships between conformation, movement, age, sex and intended use provides a more nuanced foundation for assessing individual cases, making it directly applicable to diagnosis, therapeutic planning and monitoring rehabilitation progress in horses presenting with back-related problems.
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Practical Takeaways
- •This kinematic reference database provides objective standards for assessing back dysfunction, moving beyond subjective clinical examination which varies between practitioners.
- •Expected movement symmetry is high in healthy horses; asymmetrical movement patterns may warrant investigation as potential indicators of back dysfunction.
- •Account for differences in back kinematics based on horse use and gender when evaluating individual horses, and expect reduced thoracolumbar flexion/extension in older horses as a normal age-related change.
Key Findings
- •Established a kinematic database for normal back function in 33 riding horses at walk and trot, including range of movement and symmetry values for extension/flexion, lateral bending, lateral excursion and axial rotation.
- •Symmetry values were very high for all variables measured, indicating consistent bilateral movement patterns in healthy horses.
- •Significant differences in back kinematics were observed between horses of different uses (dressage vs showjumping) and genders (mares vs geldings).
- •Age was negatively correlated with extension and flexion of the thoracolumbar junction, indicating reduced mobility with advancing age.