Abstract

Background:
Showjumping athletic horses are frequently affected by back pain, which in turn influences their performance and equestrian activities.

Aim: The aim of the present study was to determine the etiological factors predisposing to back problems in show jumping horses and how to diagnose, and manage them.

Methods:
A total of 75 cases (45 geldings and 30 mares, aged between 8 and 23 years and weighing 420–550 Kg) with histories suggestive of back problems and low competitive ability as show jumping were used in this study. The evaluation of data was based on the inputs of case history, clinical signs, clinical examination, local analgesic injection, and diagnostic imaging.

Results:
The demonstrated types of back disorders were back deformities (lordosis, scoliosis, and sacral hunter bump) (5 cases–6.66%), muscular strain (18 cases–24%), sacroiliac sprain (30 cases–40%), vertebral lesions, mostly crowding and spondylosis (16 cases–21.33%), and skin lesions due to tack or rider-induced back pain (saddle mark, lumps or scars) (6 cases–8%). Treatment included rest, anti-inflammatory drugs, and intra-articular injection of local corticosteroids.

Conclusion:
Conventional clinical examination visually, at rest, exercise, and spinal reflexes is indispensable for the diagnosis of back disorders. Complementary diagnosis via diagnostic imaging and local analgesic injection is necessary to determine the location of pain.

Key words: Back disorder, Show jumping horses, Diagnosis, Management