02/26/2026
Spring is almost here, so that means soreness. Let's talk about back soreness and how to spot it. I will give 3 examples of what could be causing any soreness your horse may be experiencing.
- Ill-Fitting Saddle
- Compensation From Another Issue
- Increased Work or Change in Routine
First, an Ill-Fitting Saddle.
Back soreness isn't always from "working too hard." One of the biggest culprits I see is poor saddle fit.
Even a slightly uneven saddle can cause muscle tension and soreness over time. If your horse is acting girthy, hollowing out, or just not feeling like they are moving like themselves, then their back may be asking for help.
Second, Compensating For Another Issue.
Sometimes the back is a victim.
Horses compensate when something else is bothering them, just like how humans compensate when something is hurting us. Whether it is their hocks, feet, stifles, etc., over time, that compensation shows up as back soreness
Third, Increased Work or a Change in Their Routine.
Just like us, horses get sore when their workload increases, they come back from time off, ground conditions change, and more.
Backs are often the first place tension builds when there is a change in routine or their workload.
Preventative bodywork keeps small, tight spots from turning into bigger problems and helps your horse stay comfortable and performing their best.
Not sure if your horse's back is sore? Message me, and I'll be more than happy to help you figure it out!!
