Recovery from body lameness is rarely linear. Learn why dips, plateaus, and fluctuations are a normal part of equine rehabilitation—and how to recognize true progress over time.

At the walk, healthy horses rely on passive neck motion to support balance and efficient movement. The characteristic figure-8 pattern of the head and neck coordinates with the forelimbs, reveal­ing important clues about biomechanics, soundness, and compensation.

Performance lameness does not always present as a clear head-nod or limp. In many sport horses, discomfort in the neck, back, or pelvis shows up first as subtle performance decline rather than obvious limb lameness.

Understanding the Pain Cycle in Horses – Part 3 explores how movement patterns and management strategies help interrupt chronic pain loops and restore more comfortable, efficient motion.

Your horse’s posture is an early indicator of pain and compensation. Research shows that hollow backs, concave necks, and rigid stances often reflect spinal discomfort long before lameness appears.