Osteochondrosis (OCD) in Horses
Osteochondrosis (osteochondrosis dissecans, also known as OCD) is a relatively common manifestation of a broader disease syndrome in horses, known as Developmental Orthopaedic Disease (DOD).
Based near Killarney, Co Kerry, my name is Joanne OโShea. I am a passionate and caring, fully qualified and registered Advanced Equine Veterinary Nurse (AnScVN, PgCertAVN), Equine Physical Therapist, Equine Nutritional Advisor and Electrophysical Therapist.
I believe in a holistic approach to equine healthcare, that prioritises the well-being of horses. I combine manual therapy and osteopathic techniques, with electrophysical therapy and nutritional management, to support the physical and emotional wellbeing of horses at all stages of life, for clients nationwide.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please explore my site, or contact me directly.
Your horse’s well-being is our priority! Let us give your horse a voice!
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My mission is to always advocate for the horse and to constantly strive to enhance the quality of life for horses and their owners, through a compassionate, evidence-based osteopathic approach.
I strongly believe in the interconnectedness of the whole horse, and that the body, the mind and the spirit are inherently linked, creating a delicate balance that must work harmoniously, in order to achieve true health and wellbeing. I believe that all these elements need to be fully nurtured and understood, for a horse to thrive with resilience and good health, which in turn leads to strongly bonded harmonious partnerships with their human companions.
I am hugely passionate about promoting the longevity of horses and I seek to empower horse owners with the most up to date knowledge and resources, while fostering a nurturing environment that promotes healing, comfort and overall health.
Where required, I will always challenge and discredit the numerous myths that exist withinย the horse industry and I will always encourage owners to ask themselves why, when things are not going right! Horses do speak to us in their own language, if only we are willing to listen! It is my mission to give your horse a voice!ย
Expert Care
I am extensively trained and experienced, with a well-rounded education and approach to equine health.
Compassionate Environment
I treat every horse as if they were my own, providing a calm, relaxing and supportive atmosphere.
Client Education
I believe informed horse owners make the best decisions for their horses, and I’m here to guide you.
Join me in my commitment to holistic equine healthcare. Together, we can ensure your horses lead happy, healthy lives.
I offer a range of evidence-based equine services designed to support your horseโs unique needs, including:
- Comprehensive evaluations to identify areas of discomfort or dysfunction
- A wide range of treatment modalities
- Tailored rehabilitation plans to aid recovery from injuries or surgeries.
- Wellness programmes, with preventative care strategies, to maintain optimal health and well-being.
The Role of the Equine Veterinary Nurse in General Anaesthesia
Equine general anaesthesia is more fraught with danger of mortality and serious morbidity, than GA in small animal species as well as in humans.
Beet Pulp for Horses
The by-product of the sugar beet industry, unmolassed beet pulp is a safe, palatable and a highly digestible feed for horses.
I love this post and it really hits home! ๐คฏ๐ฅต๐คฆโโ๏ธ … I think a lot of us who work in this industry feel the same โฆ once youโre well trained in gait analysis, movement, compensation and pain ~ you canโt just unsee things when it suits you! ๐ซฃ๐๐ตโโ๏ธ๐![]()
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Being educated in horse's movement patterns can have it's advantages and disadvantages and sometimes ignorance is bliss, meaning no disrespect to anybody.![]()
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As children, we chose ponies with our hearts on our sleeves! ๐๐ No vettings, no x-rays, no questions โฆ and somehow they gave us some of the best years we ever had! ๐๐ But looking back now, with educated eyes, how many of those horses were actually lame, uncomfortable, or compensating?![]()
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Because the reality is (and this is not just my opinion, this is based on vast scientific research) a significant proportion of horses in training are not truly sound. Some studies suggest close to 50% (Dyson & Pollard, 2020), others have shown up to 70% of horses assumed to be sound, actually have measurable lameness (Dyson & Pollard, 2020) and most of it goes unrecognised.![]()
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This is definitely not to say that these horses cannot be made comfortable, or cannot work, as many indeed can.![]()
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So now the challenge isnโt just about finding a nice horse, but itโs about finding one that functions well enough to stay sound. Itโs definitely not about perfection (because that doesnโt exist unless you're after a unicorn! ๐ฆ), It's about understanding any dysfunction you are seeing, what is driving it and whether itโs something you can realistically manage, or improve long-term.![]()
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… It makes things much more difficult … because when you knowโฆ you unfortunately cannot un-know!! ๐ซฃ๐คฆโโ๏ธ๐๐![]()
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References ![]()
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Dyson, S. & Pollard, D. (2020) Application of a Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram and Its Relationship with Gait in a Convenience Sample of 60 Riding Horses. Animals, 10(6), 1044. Available at: pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7341225/โ ![]()
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Dyson, S. & Pollard, D. (2020) Application of a Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram and Its Relationship with Gait in a Convenience Sample of 60 Riding Horses (PDF version). Available at: www.24horsebehaviors.org/s/Dyson-Pollard-RHpE-60-horses-Animals-10-01044-v2.pdfโ .๐คก๐คก The process of buying a horse is no April Fools….but itโs a foolโs game!!!![]()
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I miss the days as a child, a much simpler time. I tried 2 ponies, I picked which one of the two I prefered, Dad would do the deal, no vetting, no xray, no scans, no flexion tests. They were the best ponies I ever had!!!! In hindsight, they were lame or a bit โoffโ for the majority of their life, but I was a child, a carefree and nobody knew any better!! Oh to be ignorant!! โจโจโจ![]()
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Now, I see too much, I know too much, once I see, I canโt unsee it ๐ ![]()
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God give me strength!!!!!!
This is what I discussed yesterday! ๐
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When this happens, it's usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it's been deleted.
๐ข๐ป๐ฒ ๐ต๐ฎ๐ฟ๐ฑ ๐๐ฟ๐๐๐ต ๐ฎ๐ฏ๐ผ๐๐ ๐ฝ๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ณ๐ผ๐ฟ๐บ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฐ๐ฒ ๐ต๐ผ๐ฟ๐๐ฒ๐ ๐๐ต๐ฎ๐ ๐ถ๐ ๐ฏ๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ธ๐ฒ๐ฑ ๐ฏ๐ ๐๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฒ๐ป๐ฐ๐ฒ![]()
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Multiple peer-reviewed studies over the last decade or so, have shown us something many people find difficult to accept ~ that is that around ๐๐โ๐๐% ๐จ๐ ๐ก๐จ๐ซ๐ฌ๐๐ฌ ๐ข๐ง ๐ซ๐๐ ๐ฎ๐ฅ๐๐ซ ๐ฉ๐๐ซ๐๐จ๐ซ๐ฆ๐๐ง๐๐ ๐ฐ๐จ๐ซ๐ค ๐ฌ๐ก๐จ๐ฐ ๐ฅ๐๐ฆ๐๐ง๐๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐จ๐ซ ๐ฉ๐๐ข๐ง-๐ซ๐๐ฅ๐๐ญ๐๐ ๐ ๐๐ข๐ญ ๐๐๐ง๐จ๐ซ๐ฆ๐๐ฅ๐ข๐ญ๐ข๐๐ฌ, despite being considered to be sound by their owners and trainers. These horses are not all obviously lame ~ many show low-grade, or ridden-only abnormalities, that can be easily missed in day-to-day training.![]()
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This figure comes from large-scale research studies on performance horses, including the work of Dr Sue Dyson and colleagues, where horses were assessed thoroughly (including on circles and under saddle), rather than only in straight lines.![]()
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Then, even more concerning is a well-designed study from Sweden, where riding instructors and trainers were given structured, online training and feedback to improve their ability to recognise hindlimb lameness. Results showed that it did not significantly improve their accuracy, particularly for subtle or low-grade lameness.![]()
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This study, was led by researchers including Elin Hernlund, who is also one of the developers of Sleip, the objective lameness technology, demonstrates the fact that experience and good intentions alone are not enough to reliably detect pain-related gait abnormalities.![]()
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This is not a criticism of owners or trainers, but it does reflect the fact that there are limits to human visual perception and the very complex way that horses compensate for discomfort.![]()
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Many performance horses do continue working with undetected pain and subtle lameness is genuinely difficult to see. Education does help awareness, but it does not replace structured assessment, clinical expertise, or objective evaluation.![]()
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This is not to say that these horses cannot have a job. Indeed many may be made serviceably sound and are able to work comfortably with appropriate limits.![]()
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For improved performance, longevity and welfare, we need to move beyond assuming that โlooks soundโ means โis soundโ to the untrained eye and be willing to seek experienced clinical assessment when concerns arise.![]()
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๐๐๐๐๐ง๐๐ฃ๐๐๐จ![]()
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Dyson, S., Berger, J., Ellis, A.D. and Mullard, J. (2018) โDevelopment of an ethogram for a pain-free ridden horse and its application to determine the presence of musculoskeletal painโ, Journal of Veterinary Behavior, 23, pp. 47โ57. doi.org/10.1016/j.jveb.2017.10.008โ ![]()
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Greve, L. and Dyson, S. (2014) โThe interrelationship of lameness, saddle slip and back shape in the general sports horse populationโ, Equine Veterinary Journal, 46(6), pp. 687โ694. doi.org/10.1111/evj.12222โ ![]()
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Dyson, S. and Greve, L. (2016) โSubjective gait assessment of 57 sports horses in normal work: A comparison of the response to flexion tests, movement in hand, on the lunge, and riddenโ, Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, 38, pp. 1โ7. doi.org/10.1016/j.jevs.2015.12.012โ ![]()
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Leclercq, A., Bystrรถm, A., Sรถderlind, M., Persson, E., Rhodin, M., Engell, M.T. and Hernlund, E. (2022) โEvaluation of feedback methods for improved detection of hindlimb lameness in horses among riding instructors and trainersโ, Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 9, 992954. doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2022.992954โ ![]()
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Zetterberg, E., Persson-Sjodin, E., Lundblad, J., Hernlund, E. and Rhodin, M. (2024) โPrevalence of movement asymmetries in high-performing riding horses perceived as free from lamenessโ, PLOS ONE, 19(7), e0308061. doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0308061
doi.org
"๐ง๐ต๐ฒ ๐ฝ๐ฒ๐น๐๐ถ๐ ๐ถ๐ ๐ผ๐๐" ๐ผ๐ฟ "๐๐ฎโ๐๐ฏ ๐ถ๐ ๐ผ๐๐"! ๐ซฃ ๐๐ฒ๐โ๐ ๐ฐ๐น๐ฒ๐ฎ๐ฟ ๐๐ผ๐บ๐ฒ๐๐ต๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐๐ฝ! ๐![]()
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In horses without traumatic injury, or pathological structural failure, bones do not simply move โout of alignmentโ. When we describe bones or the spine as being โout of alignmentโ, we are implying that they are no longer in their normal anatomical relationship.![]()
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In a living, weight-bearing horse without traumatic injury, this is not an accurate description of what is happening. What we are observing instead are functional movement preferences and asymmetrical loading patterns that are related to how forces are being transmitted through the soft tissue system, rather than structural displacement of bones. When therapists talk about rotation, side-bending, or asymmetry, this is what they mean, not bones being out of place.![]()
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If a pelvis or cervical vertebra were genuinely displaced, weโd be dealing with a horse in very severe pain, neurological signs and a veterinary emergency ๐ Not something that can be resolved with manual therapy ๐ซฃ If bones truly were โout of alignmentโ, no manual therapist could safely or legitimately deal with this. It would mean, for example, fracture, dislocation, subluxation, ligamentous rupture, or joint instability and it would be as a result of traumatic injury, or pathological structural failure. Manual therapy would be contraindicated if bones were genuinely out of alignment and no therapist should be touching them.![]()
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Muscles, tendons, ligaments and fascia all influence how joints move and load. They can create the appearance of asymmetry and restriction, but the underlying issue relates to altered force transmission and load distribution, rather than bones having moved out of place.![]()
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Peer-reviewed research in equine biomechanics and musculoskeletal therapy describes spinal motion restriction and asymmetrical loading patterns, but does not support the idea that bones โmove out of placeโ in the absence of traumatic injury or structural failure.![]()
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As therapists, the language we use matters. Accurate explanations will help owners understand their horses better and reflect the complexity of the system that weโre working with.![]()
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#EquineBiomechanics![]()
#EquineRehab![]()
#EvidenceBasedPractice![]()
#HorseWelfare![]()
#ProfessionalPractice![]()
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๐๐๐๐๐ซ๐๐ง๐๐๐ฌ![]()
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Stubbs, N.C., Hodges, P.W., Jeffcott, L.B., Cowin, G., Hodgson, D.R. and McGowan, C.M. (2006) Functional anatomy of the caudal thoracolumbar and lumbosacral spine in the horse. Equine Veterinary Journal Supplement. Available at: pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17402454/โ ![]()
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Haussler, K.K. (2009) Review of manual therapy techniques in equine practice. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science. Available at: www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0737080609006753โ ![]()
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Harrison, L.M., Sole-Guitart, A., Ahern, B. and Goff, L. (2025) Functional anatomy of the equine thoracolumbar spine related to equine back rehabilitation. Journal of Equine Rehabilitation. Available at: www.researchgate.net/publication/391042652_Functional_anatomy_of_the_equine_thoracolumbar_spine_r…โ ![]()
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Haussler, K.K., et al. (2021) A systematic review of musculoskeletal mobilization and manipulation in horses. Available at: pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8532674/
Functional anatomy of the caudal thoracolumbar and lumbosacral spine in the horse – PubMed
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Equine multifidus anatomy and function are comparable to that of man. The high prevalence of anatomical variations in the LS spine may affect maximal dorsoventral motion, the stability of the LS joint…
๐ง๐ต๐ฒ ๐ฒ๐พ๐๐ถ๐ฝ๐บ๐ฒ๐ป๐ ๐๐ต๐ผ๐๐น๐ฑ ๐ณ๐ถ๐ ๐๐ต๐ฒ ๐ต๐ผ๐ฟ๐๐ฒ, ๐ป๐ผ๐ ๐๐ต๐ฒ ๐ต๐ผ๐ฟ๐๐ฒ ๐ฏ๐ฒ๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐บ๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ ๐ณ๐ถ๐ ๐๐ต๐ฒ ๐ฒ๐พ๐๐ถ๐ฝ๐บ๐ฒ๐ป๐ ๐ซฃ![]()
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Let's talk about saddle pads and more particularly about riser/corrective pads. Lately, Iโm seeing an increasing amount of riser pads and additional padding being used under saddles, often as a routine solution, rather than a short-term measure.![]()
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Not all saddle pads are problematic. Thin cloth pads, wool or sheepskin pads can definitely have a role as an interface under a correctly fitting saddle. However, riser and corrective pads are a different category entirely and this is where the concern lies.![]()
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Pressure-mapping research consistently shows that adding pads under a saddle changes pressure distribution on the horseโs back. These changes depend on: ![]()
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โข pad material![]()
โข pad thickness![]()
โข pad design![]()
โข how the pad compresses and moves during ridden work![]()
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Studies have also shown that some commonly used โcorrectiveโ or half pads, particularly those made from high-density foams or gel, can increase focal pressure, especially at the front (cranial/wither) region, even when the saddle itself meets fitting guidelines.![]()
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There is currently no strong scientific evidence that riser pads reliably improve saddle fit or reduce pressure long-term, when the saddle itself does not fit. Their widespread use is largely based on tradition, visual appearance and convenience i.e. the idea that โliftingโ or โlevellingโ a saddle must be beneficial. While this may look reassuring to the eye, or may feel better to the rider, this concept is not supported by objective biomechanical or pressure-mapping research. This isnโt surprising, because a pad cannot change:![]()
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โข saddle tree width or angle![]()
โข saddle geometry![]()
โข panel shape![]()
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Many riser pads are made from stiff, shape-holding materials e.g. high-density EVA foams. These materials act more like a spacer or wedge than a cushion, deliberately altering saddle balance, rather than adapting to the horseโs back. In doing so, they can simply shift load elsewhere, rather than resolve the underlying problem.![]()
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Riser pads are most often used to compensate for: ![]()
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โข a saddle that is too narrow or too wide![]()
โข poor balance![]()
โข muscle loss or asymmetry![]()
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Riser pads are sometimes described as a โshort-term fixโ, but even short-term use immediately alters saddle balance and pressure distribution and can mask the need for proper saddle adjustment. When used as a long-term solution, they can mask saddle fit problems, delay appropriate intervention and contribute to compensatory movement patterns over time.![]()
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*** We do not recommend riser or corrective pads as a solution for poor saddle fit ***![]()
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โข Saddle fit should be checked by a qualified professional at least every 6 months and sooner if the horse is known to be changing shape (rehab, training, weight or workload changes)![]()
โข Pads, where used, should be thin, purposeful, time-limited and regularly reviewed![]()
โข If a saddle requires a riser pad to be rideable, it is usually the wrong saddle for that horse at that time.![]()
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Your horseโs back is dynamic ~ saddle fit should be dynamic too and not propped up with wedges or padding. ![]()
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* ๐ฝ๐๐ฅ ๐ฅ๐๐ ๐๐ข๐ฆ๐๐ก๐๐๐๐ฅ ๐ฅ๐ ๐ฅ๐๐ ๐๐ ๐ฃ๐ค๐. ๐ธ๐๐จ๐๐ช๐ค *![]()
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๐๐๐๐๐ซ๐๐ง๐๐๐ฌ![]()
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MacKechnie-Guire, R., Fisher, M. & Pfau, T. (2021) Effect of a Half Pad on Pressure Distribution in Sitting Trot and Canter Beneath a Saddle Fitted to Industry Guidelines, Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, 96. Available at: www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0737080620303981?via%3Dihub![]()
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Dittmann, M.T., Hess, N., Arpagaus, S., Mรผller-Quirin, J., Weishaupt, M.A. & Latif, S.N. (2022) The effects of different saddle pads on the pressure exerted on the equine back by correctly fitting dressage saddles, Pferdeheilkunde, 38(2), pp.100โ108. Available at: orgprints.org/id/eprint/44611/1/dittmann-etal-2022-Pferdeheilkunde-Vol38-Issue2-p100-108.pdf![]()
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Kotschwar, A.B., Baltacis, A. & Peham, C. (2010) The influence of different saddle pads on force and pressure changes beneath saddles with excessively wide trees, Veterinary Journal. Available at: pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20156245/
๐๐พ๐๐ถ๐ป๐ฒ ๐๐๐๐ต๐บ๐ฎ ๐๐
๐ฝ๐น๐ฎ๐ถ๐ป๐ฒ๐ฑ ๐๐ซ![]()
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Late autumn and winter in Ireland is the classic danger period for equine asthma. As horses move off grass and spend more time stabled, exposure to dry hay, dust, mould spores and reduced ventilation increases its incidence significantly. For many horses, this seasonal change does not create asthma in itself, but it does reveal an underlying airway sensitivity, which is why respiratory signs often appear or worsen at this time of year.![]()
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Equine asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the lower airways. It is not an infection, nor is it just a cough. It exists on a scale, from mild performance-limiting disease, to severe cases, where horses struggle to actually breathe at rest (historically called heaves, COPD, or RAO).![]()
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What causes equine asthma? ๐ ![]()
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Equine asthma is multifactorial. It is driven by an abnormal inflammatory and immune response in the lungs, triggered by inhaled particles such as:![]()
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โ Dry hay (even when it looks clean)![]()
โ Dust![]()
โ Mould spores![]()
โ Endotoxins![]()
โ Poor ventilation![]()
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Important note:![]()
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Not all horses that are exposed to dust will develop asthma; there is an individual susceptibility, likely influenced by genetics and immune system behaviour. Modern management does not create asthma either, but it certainly often reveals it.![]()
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Common signs ๐![]()
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Signs can vary depending on severity.![]()
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Mild to moderate asthma![]()
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โก Reduced performance![]()
โก Longer recovery after exercise![]()
โก Occasional cough![]()
โก Subtle changes under saddle![]()
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Severe asthma![]()
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โ Increased respiratory rate at rest![]()
โ Abbdominal (flank) breathing![]()
โ Prolonged, laboured expiration![]()
โ Nostrils flaring![]()
โ A visible heave line in chronic cases (heaves).![]()
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How is equine asthma diagnosed? ๐ฉบ![]()
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Diagnosis is based on a combination of:![]()
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โ History and management![]()
โ Clinical signs![]()
โ Response to environmental change and treatment![]()
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In some cases, further diagnostics may be used, including:![]()
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โ Endoscopy![]()
โ Airway sampling (e.g. bronchoalveolar lavage [BAL])![]()
โ Tracheal wash![]()
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Not every horse requires advanced diagnostics, particularly when signs and response to management are clear.![]()
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Treatment โ Relievers Vs Controllers ๐![]()
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Treatment has two goals: ![]()
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1๏ธโฃ Improve breathing![]()
2๏ธโฃ Control airway inflammation![]()
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It is important to understand the difference between relievers and controllers:![]()
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๐น Bronchodilators (RELIEVERS)![]()
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These open the airways and improve breathing short-term, but do not treat the underlying disease.![]()
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๐น Corticosteroids (CONTROLLERS)![]()
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These reduce airway inflammation and are essential for long-term disease control. They do not give instant relief but change the course of the condition. They are used to control airway inflammation when needed and are adjusted over time based on response and management. If a horse needs frequent bronchodilators, the inflammation is not adequately controlled.![]()
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Inhaled therapy and nebulisers ๐ฌ๏ธ![]()
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Inhaled medications are now commonly used in equine asthma because they:![]()
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~ Deliver medication directly to the lungs![]()
~ Require much lower total drug doses![]()
~ Have fewer systemic side effects![]()
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This may be done using equine inhalation devices or nebulisers e.g. Flexineb in photo, depending on the medication being used.![]()
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Supportive therapies![]()
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Products such as Audivard Balsamic Air may help some horses with upper airway comfort or mucus mobilisation, but they do not treat equine asthma.![]()
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These:![]()
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โช๏ธ Do not reduce airway inflammation![]()
โช๏ธ Do not control the disease![]()
โช๏ธ Should never replace medical treatment, or management. (In some horses with active lower airway disease, they may even cause irritation and should be used with caution).![]()
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Good management is essential ๐งฑ![]()
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Medication alone is not enough and long-term control relies on reducing inhaled triggers, including:![]()
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โง Reducing or eliminating dry hay![]()
โง Using soaked or steamed hay, haylage, or forage![]()
โง Improving ventilation![]()
โง Minimising dust from bedding![]()
โง Maximising turnout where possible![]()
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For many horses, these management changes make the biggest difference of all.![]()
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Equine asthma is common and often under-recognised. It is not always caused by โdusty stablesโ alone. Early recognition is vital and effective management combines medical therapy and environmental change.![]()
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If your horse has a persistent cough, reduced performance, or looks like theyโre working to breathe, donโt ignore it. Equine asthma is quite manageable but only when itโs recognised and addressed properly.![]()
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๐๐๐๐๐ซ๐๐ง๐๐๐ฌ![]()
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Couรซtil, L. (2020) โEquine asthma: Current understanding and future directionsโ, Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 7, 450. Available at: www.frontiersin.org/journals/veterinary-science/articles/10.3389/fvets.2020.00450/![]()
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Couรซtil, L.L., Cardwell, J.M., Gerber, V., Lavoie, J-P., Lรฉguillette, R. and Richard, E.A. (2016) โInflammatory airway disease of horsesโRevised consensus statementโ, Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 30(2), pp. 503โ515. Available at: pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4913592/ ![]()
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Lavoie, J-P., Bullone, M., Rodrigues, N., Germim, P., Albrecht, B. and von Salis-Soglio, M. (2019) โEffect of different doses of inhaled ciclesonide on lung function in horses with experimentally induced asthma exacerbationsโ, Equine Veterinary Journal, 51(5), pp. 645โ651. Available at: pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30854685/![]()
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Lรฉguillette, R. (2003) โRecurrent airway obstructionโHeavesโ, Veterinary Clinics of North America: Equine Practice, 19(1), pp. 63โ86. Available at: pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12747662/
๐ง๐ต๐ฒ ๐๐น๐ถ๐ผ๐ฝ๐๐ผ๐ฎ๐ ๐ ๐๐๐ฐ๐น๐ฒ ๐๐ฟ๐ผ๐๐ฝ – ๐ ๐ผ๐ฟ๐ฒ ๐ง๐ต๐ฎ๐ป ๐๐๐๐ ๐ฎ ๐๐๐๐๐๐ผ๐ฟ๐ฑ? ๐ค![]()
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There has been a lot of discussion lately about the iliopsoas muscles in horses and this is for good reason. The iliopsoas muscle group is a deep muscle complex, comprising the psoas major, psoas minor and iliacus and it plays a significant role in how a horse moves, carries itself and co-ordinates the hindlimb with the spine.![]()
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The iliopsoas muscle is quite literally the filet mignon (fillet steak) and is located deep within the body, lying close to the underside of the spine. Components of the iliopsoas complex can extend cranially as far forward as the last thoracic vertebrae, before continuing through the lumbar region and passing to the inside of the pelvis, to attach to the femur. This deep, central position places the iliopsoas at the interface between the spine, the pelvis and the hindlimb, influencing both limb movement and trunk stability, as opposed to what can be seen on the surface alone.![]()
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Because the iliopsoas is a deep muscle complex, it cannot be easily seen, palpated, or directly assessed in the way more superficial structures can. Historically, many assessments understandably focused on what was externally visible and more easily measurable e.g. limb mechanics, posture, topline development, as well as obvious lameness and asymmetries. This did not mean that deeper stabilising muscles were unimportant, but that they were harder to observe, quantify and integrate into routine evaluation. But as our understanding of biomechanics, posture and movement co-ordination has evolved, so too has our appreciation of how these deeper systems contribute hugely to global movement and stability.![]()
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The iliopsoas is a primary hip flexor, meaning it is heavily involved in bringing the hindlimb forward during the swing phase of the stride. This alone makes it fundamental to locomotion. But its role goes far beyond simple limb movement. Because of its anatomical position, the iliopsoas also contributes to:![]()
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โข Lumbosacral stability![]()
โข Pelvic positioning![]()
โข Postural control![]()
โข Co-ordination between the trunk and hindlimb![]()
โข Efficient force transfer through the body![]()
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In other words, this muscle complex sits at a key junction between the spine and the hindquarters. It helps link movement, stability, and posture into one integrated system.![]()
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When the iliopsoas is functioning well, it supports fluid, co-ordinated movement and allows the horse to step through, lift the trunk and move with ease. When it is overloaded, or underperforming, it often reflects wider issues within the system e.g. reduced core stability, altered pelvic mechanics, or compensatory movement patterns.![]()
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This is why the iliopsoas has become more prominent in equine rehabilitation, performance analysis and postural work. It is not only because it is a trendy buzzword, but because we are getting better at understanding how deep stabilising muscles influence global movement.![]()
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So it isnโt a muscle that works in isolation and it isnโt a superficial structure. And it isnโt something you can fully understand without looking at the whole horse. It is a very important contributor to how horses organise themselves in motion, making it well worth understanding ๐โค๏ธ๐![]()
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๐๐๐๐๐ซ๐๐ง๐๐๐ฌ![]()
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Cullen, R., Canapp, D., Dycus, D., Carr, B., Ibrahim, V. & Canapp, S., 2017. Clinical evaluation of iliopsoas strain with findings from diagnostic musculoskeletal ultrasound in agility performance canines โ 73 cases. Veterinary Evidence, 2(2). doi.org/10.18849/ve.v2i2.93.![]()
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Domaลska-Kruppa, N., 2024. Advances in the clinical diagnostics to equine back pain. Veterinary Medicine: Research and Reports. Available at: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10930837/.![]()
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Haussler, K.K., 1999. Anatomy of the thoracolumbar vertebral region. Veterinary Clinics of North America: Equine Practice, 15(1), pp.13โ26. doi.org/10.1016/S0749-0739(17)30161-X.![]()
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Payne, R.C., 2005. Functional specialisation of pelvic limb anatomy in horses. Journal of Anatomy, 206(6), pp.479โ490. Available at: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1571521/.![]()
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Siccardi, M.A., 2023. Anatomy, bony pelvis and lower limb: psoas major. In: StatPearls [Internet]. National Library of Medicine. Available at: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK535418/.![]()
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Iliopsoas muscle, 2025. In: ScienceDirect Topics: Veterinary Science and Veterinary Medicine. Available at: www.sciencedirect.com/topics/veterinary-science-and-veterinary-medicine/iliopsoas.![]()
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Psoas major muscle, 2025. In: ScienceDirect Topics: Veterinary Science and Veterinary Medicine. Available at: www.sciencedirect.com/topics/veterinary-science-and-veterinary-medicine/psoas-major-muscle.
๐ด ๐๐ฎ๐บ๐ฒ๐ป๐ฒ๐๐ & ๐ฃ๐ผ๐ผ๐ฟ ๐ฃ๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ณ๐ผ๐ฟ๐บ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฐ๐ฒ ~ ๐ช๐ต๐ ๐๐ต๐ฒ ๐ข๐ฏ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐๐ ๐ฃ๐ฟ๐ผ๐ฏ๐น๐ฒ๐บ ๐๐๐ปโ๐ ๐๐น๐๐ฎ๐๐ ๐๐ต๐ฒ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ฎ๐น ๐ข๐ป๐ฒ ๐![]()
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When a horse presents with lameness or poor performance, most people will naturally focus on what they can see e.g. the short stride, the head nod, the stiffness, the reluctance, the resistance, or the crookedness. But what we see is not always what started the problem.![]()
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Horses are incredibly good at compensating. As prey animals, they are hard wired to keep moving, even when something really hurts and causes them pain. Instead of stopping, they adapt, shift their weight and change how they move. They offload painful structures and overload others that are not designed for this. This is how compensatory patterns develop.![]()
So the area that looks sore may not be the original source of the problem, but may simply be the area that has been forced to work harder for longer.![]()
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Examples:![]()
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โ A forelimb issue may develop because the hindquarters are no longer functioning properly![]()
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โ A hock may become painful because the pelvis or the lower back isnโt stabilising efficiently![]()
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โ A stiff or sore back may be protecting limb pain![]()
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โ Behavioural changes may be the only way a horse can communicate discomfort![]()
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By the time lameness is obvious, the body has often been adapting for a very long time. This is why treating the most painful, or visibly lame area doesnโt always lead to any lasting resolution. If the driver of the compensation isnโt addressed, the pattern usually returns, sometimes in a different limb, a different joint, or a different behaviour.![]()
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Thorough assessment means stepping back and asking yourself "How is this horse distributing its weight? Where is it avoiding load? What has changed over time? Which areas are working harder to protect others?"![]()
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It also means looking at the horse as a whole, not just the โlame legโ, as pain does not stay local. Movement is always globally interconnected. When one area canโt do its job properly, another one has to step in.![]()
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So sometimes, the obvious problem is not the cause, itโs the consequence of long-standing compensation, altered loading and a body that has finally run out of ways to cope ๐โค๏ธ๐![]()
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๐๐๐๐๐ง๐๐ฃ๐๐๐จ![]()
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Weishaupt, M.A., Wiestner, T., Hogg, H.P., Jordan, P. and Auer, J.A., 2004. Compensatory load redistribution of horses with induced weight-bearing forelimb lameness. The Veterinary Journal, 168(3), pp.244โ252. Available at: www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1090023304002102![]()
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Braganรงa, F.M.S., Rhodin, M., van Weeren, P.R. and Hernlund, E., 2020. Adaptation strategies of horses with induced forelimb lameness at walk and trot: Kinetic and kinematic changes. PLoS ONE, 15(4), e0231191. Available at: pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8048804/![]()
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St George, L.B., 2022. Adaptations in equine appendicular muscle activity and movement patterns associated with lameness. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 9, 989522. Available at: www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2022.989522/full![]()
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Vorstenbosch, M.A.T.M., Buchner, H.H.F. and Schamhardt, H.C., 1997. Modeling study of compensatory head movements in lame horses. American Journal of Veterinary Research, 58(7), pp.713โ721. Available at: europepmc.org/article/med/9215445![]()
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Spoormakers, T.J.P., van Weeren, P.R. and Rhodin, M., 2023. Adaptations in axial body movement associated with lameness and back pain in sport horses. Equine Veterinary Journal. Available at: beva.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/evj.13906![]()
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Landman, M.A.A.M., de Blaauw, J.A., Hofland, L.J. and van Weeren, P.R., 2004. Field study of the prevalence of lameness in horses with back problems. Veterinary Record, 155(6), pp.165โ168. Available at: pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15357376/
๐๐ ๐๐ต๐ฟ๐ถ๐๐๐บ๐ฎ๐ ๐ง๐ต๐ฎ๐ป๐ธ ๐ฌ๐ผ๐ ๐![]()
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As 2025 draws to a close, I just want to say a heartfelt thank you to my clients, friends and most importantly the horses (and dogs!! ๐ถ). Thank you for your trust, your support and for allowing me to be part of your horsesโ journeys.![]()
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Every case teaches something new. Every horse communicates something different. And I have learned so much this year, by listening closely, questioning more deeply and never assuming I have all the answers, as nobody ever does. ![]()
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Hereโs to continued curiosity, better understanding and always striving to do better for the horse and challenging old assumptions ๐๐ฅ I look forward to 2026 and everything it will bring.![]()
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Wishing you all a happy & a peaceful Christmas and a sound, happy New Year for you and your beloved steeds ๐ดโจ![]()
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โ Joanne![]()
The Osteopathic Vet Nurse ๐โฅ๏ธ๐
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