08/06/2025
Can horses experience headaches?
Yes, horses can get headaches, although they may not experience them in exactly the same way humans do. Since horses can’t tell us directly when they have a headache, it’s up to us to understand the causes and how to help!
Possible causes of headaches in horses:
1. Sinus issues – Horses have large sinus cavities that can become infected (sinusitis), inflamed, or blocked, causing pressure and pain in the head.
2. Dental problems – Overgrown teeth, infected tooth roots, or poor dental alignment can cause pain that may mimic or lead to headaches.
3. TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) tension – Tightness or imbalance in the jaw or poll area (common in ridden horses) can cause discomfort similar to a tension headache.
4. Neck and poll tension – Muscle tension, especially in the poll, atlas, and cervical spine, can lead to pain radiating into the head area.
5. Neurological issues – Though rare, conditions like EPM (Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis) or head trauma like pull backs could cause headache-like symptoms.
6. Bridle or tack pressure – Poorly fitting tack (especially tight nosebands or browbands) can pinch nerves or put pressure on sensitive areas of the head.
7. Light sensitivity / vision issues – some horses with uveitis or eye pain may exhibit behavior that could stem from head discomfort.
Signs that may indicate a horse is experiencing a headache:
Head-shaking or tossing (not related to bugs)
Sensitivity to touch around the ears, poll, forehead, or jaw
Rubbing their head excessively on objects
Reluctance to be bridled or have their head handled
Irritability, lethargy, or withdrawn behavior
Squinting or light sensitivity
Uneven muscle development around the head or jaw
How to support a horse who may have head discomfort:
Check dental health regularly
Ensure proper saddle and bridle fit
Consider craniosacral or bodywork therapies
Reduce poll and jaw tension through gentle stretches or somatic work
Consult a vet for diagnostics if you suspect sinus, dental, or neurological causes
If you're seeing signs in one of your horses that make you wonder about headaches, I can help you break it down based on their behavior, body language, and history.
Certified in:
-Tensegrity Balance Therapy
-Equine Hanna Somatics
-Cranial Sacral Work
-Reiki Master Energy Healing
