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.

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.

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.

Dr. Beth Byles, DVM, founded Kinetic Equine Medicine to address complex performance and lameness cases through a whole-horse, biomechanics-driven approach focused on the neck, back, and pelvis.

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.

Some horses continue to show pain, tension, or behavior changes long after an injury has healed. Peripheral sensitization helps explain why normal touch or movement can become painful—and how early intervention can break the cycle.

ECVM diagnosis relies on clinical exams and imaging of the lower neck. While radiographs are common, advanced imaging like CT can be limited by access and risk.

ECVM often shows up as subtle performance changes, behavioral resistance, or intermittent pain. Recognizing these patterns is key—but diagnosis requires veterinary evaluation and imaging.