The equine back muscle: its importance and how to ensure its optimal function

Church-Huxley, H. (2026) The equine back muscle: its importance and how to ensure its optimal function. UK-Vet Equine, 10 (4). pp. 152-155. ISSN 2516-0583

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Abstract

Dysfunction of a horse's back can induce lameness or decrease performance, whereas improved back muscle can lead to improved back kinematics. Therefore, maximising the development of the back muscles can improve gait and increase performance. The epaxial muscles are the more superficial muscle group in the back and the hypaxial muscles are deeper. In order to increase the development of the epaxial muscles, non-ridden exercises, tack fit and the rider all need to be considered. Non-ridden exercises that can improve the epaxial muscles include dynamic mobilisations, incline water treadmill work and walking over ground poles. A correctly fitting saddle optimises the horse–rider interface and ensures the best interaction with the epaxial muscles. The influence of a rider can positively or negatively impact locomotion depending on the rider's fitness, weight and straightness.

Item Type:	Article
Keywords:	epaxial muscle, equine, exercise, skeletal muscle, veterinary physiotherapy
Divisions:	Departments > Animal Health, Behaviour and Welfare (from 1.09.21) Research Centres > Animal Science Research Centre > Companion Animal Health Sciences Research Group
Depositing User:	Rebecca Pendragon
Date Deposited:	14 Sep 2026 13:31
Last Modified:	14 Sep 2026 13:31
URI:	https://hau.repository.guildhe.ac.uk/id/eprint/18422

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