Equine anatomy explorer

Areas covered in an assessment

Neck Cervical spine

The neck carries the head through every stride and every change of balance. Restriction here tends to show up as resistance rather than obvious lameness.

Shoulder Shoulder and forelimb attachment

The forelimb attaches to the trunk through muscle rather than a bony joint, so the shoulder absorbs a large share of concussion from the ground.

Thoracic back Withers and thoracic spine

This is where the saddle sits, and where discomfort in ridden horses most often appears first.

Lumbar back Lumbar spine (loin)

The loin transfers power from the hindquarters forward. It has limited natural movement, so it takes strain when the hind end is not working well.

Pelvis Pelvis and sacroiliac region

The sacroiliac region links hind limb propulsion to the spine. Problems here are common, and easy to miss without a proper assessment.

Gluteals Gluteal muscle group

The largest muscle group driving the hind limb, and the main source of push from behind.

Hamstrings Caudal thigh muscles

Running down the back of the hind limb, this group controls the leg as it swings through and then takes weight.

Stifle Stifle joint

The equine equivalent of the human knee, and one of the joints most dependent on surrounding muscle for its stability.

Lower limb Cannon, fetlock and pastern

Below the knee there is very little muscle, so this region depends almost entirely on healthy tendon and ligament.

This guide is for general information. It is not a diagnosis, and veterinary consent is required before physiotherapy treatment. Get in touch to arrange an assessment.