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Therapeutic Exercise Strategies for Topline Dysfunction in Horses

Abstract

Back pain is a common cause of poor performance in horses. Veterinary practice has focused primarily on the pain aspect and has not taken into account the multifactorial aspect that is better described as "topline dysfunction". Horses with poor performance and topline dysfunction have more than just back pain, there is usually a degree of weakness and hypomobility occurring concurrently. Therefore, all three components must be addressed in order to return the horse to its full athletic potential. Therapeutic exercise programs should incorporate a variety of exercises to address these concerns. Dynamic mobilization exercises, gymnastics, ground poles, and underwater treadmill exercise have all shown to influence the topline of the horse in positive ways. Training devices require more investigation before conclusions can be made on their use for topline dysfunction.

Tena Ursini*

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