A quality canter depends on pelvic and lumbosacral flexion, iliopsoas engagement, thoracic sling support, and straightness. Learn the biomechanics behind an uphill, balanced, and elastic canter—and why problems often show up here first.

DSMD (idiopathic hopping) is a commonly missed cause of front-end pain in horses, linked to dysfunction of the scapular and thoracic sling rather than the lower limb. Learn the signs, why it’s often overlooked, and when veterinary evaluation matters.

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.

Spooky or resistant behavior under saddle is often an early sign of pain, not a training problem. Facial expression and performance changes can reveal underlying biomechanical dysfunction long before visible lameness appears.

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.

The multifidus muscle is one of the horse’s most important spinal stabilizers, providing core strength and postural control. When it weakens due to pain or inactivity, the horse loses stability and may develop chronic back pain or conditions like kissing spine. This article explains the multifidus’ role in equine biomechanics and how targeted rehabilitation at Kinetic Equine Medicine in Monroe, Washington restores balance, strength, and performance.

The neck plays a critical role in back lift, forelimb swing, and balance. Learn how cervical biomechanics influence soundness—and why neck restriction and hyperflexion disrupt the entire horse.

True collection isn’t about head position—it’s about balance. When done correctly, it shifts weight to the hindquarters, activates the core, frees the shoulders, and protects the horse’s body from long-term strain.

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.

The neck influences balance, stride, shock absorption, and nerve function. When cervical structure is compromised, movement and performance across the whole body are affected.

Saddle fit isn’t just about comfort—it directly affects biomechanics, spinal motion, and long-term soundness. Research shows rider weight, balance, and saddle design all influence pressure, posture, and performance.

ECVM is a congenital malformation of the lower neck vertebrae that can quietly affect posture, balance, and performance. Understanding the anatomy behind the condition is the first step toward recognizing its impact.