Understanding Equine Core Stability for Pain Relief and Back Support

A strong and stable core is the foundation of every horse's movement, posture, and performance. While it is often overlooked, the equine core plays a crucial role in spinal stability.

By focusing on developing core strength through targeted exercises, proper training, and integrative therapies like chiropractic and acupuncture, you can help your horse achieve better balance, reduce pain, and perform at their peak

In four legged animals, the spine which is stretched between the front and hind end, acts like a suspended bridge that can buckle under pressure. A strong core proves support the to spine, improves posture, and helps the horse bear weight more efficiently and comfortably.

Key Muscles for Stability and Movement

The equine back and core is a network of muscles that work together to stabilize the spine and support movement. These muscles are divided into two primary categories:

• Deep Muscles: These muscles lie close to the spine and act as stabilizers. They are responsible for keeping the spine aligned, providing balance and stability. These include the perivertebral multifidus (around the spine), abdominal, hip flexors ,and thoracic sling muscles.

  

  
  

• Superficial Muscles: Many people mistakenly think that the easy to see superficial muscles should be the focus of strengthening efforts. However, this is a misconception—these muscles are primarily responsible for facilitating movement rather than support weight and carrying extra loads.  When these muscles tense up in an attempt to stabilize, they can create a false sense of stability, leading to strain and stress on the horse’s body.

  
  

  

The Role of Core Muscles in Supporting Spinal Stability

The core's primary function is to stabilize the spine, especially in the mid-back region, where there is minimal muscular support. This is the area where the rider’s weight is focused. The abdominal muscles are a key part of the ventral muscle chain and play a crucial role in maintaining proper back posture. They help lift and support the spine while ensuring the pelvis stays properly aligned. The long abdominal muscles, which originate at the pubic bone, are essential for tilting the pelvis and lifting the lower back, enabling the hind legs to step underneath.

Without strong abdominal muscles, a horse will struggle to properly engage its back and hindquarters, preventing the back from lifting effectively. This imbalance can lead to compensatory patterns, then to postural and performance issues that can impact their overall health and comfort.

Indicators of Poor Core Function in Horses

Recognizing the signs of core weakness is key to identifying potential issues early and preventing long-term damage. Signs that your horse may be struggling with core engagement include:

• Hollow Back and Raised Head: A weak core can cause the horse to hollow their spine and the back will sway. Often the neck remains fixed high and tight to compensate.

• Altered Center of Mass: A weak core can shift the horse’s center of mass, causing them to "camp out" (hind legs extended backward) or "camp in" (hind legs tucked under), which can reduce movement efficiency and place stress on the joints.

• Lack of Topline Muscles: Core weakness often results in an underdeveloped topline, as the muscles along the back are not being utilized properly.

• Low Back Pain and Low-Grade Lameness: A lack of core engagement can put excessive strain on the lower back and spine, often resulting in chronic low-grade lameness or discomfort.

These symptoms may be indicative of core weakness, which can lead to more serious issues if not addressed. Strengthening the core can improve the overall function and comfort of your horse, ensuring they remain healthy and happy in their work.

False Stability: The Danger of Tension in Superficial Muscles

When a horse's core is weak, the superficial muscles (such as those along the neck and back) may tense up in an attempt to compensate. This can create a false sense of stability, as the horse appears stable but is relying on tension rather than true muscle support. Over time, this can lead to:

• Increased Stiffness and Limited Range of Motion: Tensed superficial muscles reduce flexibility, making it difficult for the horse to move freely.

• Greater Risk of Muscle Strain and Joint Stress: Tension in the superficial muscles increases the risk of injury due to improper movement and overcompensation.

• Diminished Performance: The horse may struggle with power and coordination, leading to a decrease in overall performance.

  
  

Strengthening the Core: Key Exercises and Techniques

To help your horse develop a strong, stable core, it’s essential to engage in exercises that target the right muscles. While lateral movements, such as renvers, travers, and shoulder-in, help engage the hindquarters and abdominal muscles, they must be performed with precision and care to avoid overcompensation. Transitioning between different gaits requires the horse to adjust their balance and posture, encouraging core engagement. When changing to a slower gait, the horse needs to lift their back and engage the abdominals. Moving over ground poles and cavaletti requires the horse to lift their legs higher and step under their body, which stretches the upper line, engages the hindquarters, and strengthens the core.

Conclusion

A strong core is the foundation of every horse’s movement, performance, and comfort. . At The Zen Vet, we are here to help guide you in creating a tailored core-strengthening program to ensure your horse’s long-term health and success. Let’s work together to build a strong, stable foundation for your horse’s future!