The Ultimate Guide to SI Joint Care for Horses

How to recognize, treat, and prevent SI pain—because your ride starts at the core.

What Is the SI Joint in Horses?

The sacroiliac (SI) joint connects your horse’s spine to their pelvis. It’s a major power center—transferring energy from the hindquarters to the rest of the body. When that joint is inflamed, unstable, or injured? Everything from performance to personality can change.

Common Signs of SI Joint Pain

• Stiffness or uneven stride behind
• Bucking or resistance under saddle
• Reluctance to collect or engage
• Asymmetrical muscling over the croup
• Sore to the touch near the top of the hindquarters

If you’ve ever said, “They just feel off”—this could be why.

What Causes SI Pain in Horses?

It’s often a combination of overuse and poor movement patterns:

• Hard stops and turns (think reining, barrel racing, roping)
• Poor saddle fit
• Weak core or glute muscles
• Sudden slips or missteps

Diagnosing SI Joint Issues

Vets may use:

• Palpation and physical exam
• Diagnostic blocks
• Ultrasound or thermography
• Observing under saddle or on the lunge

It can be tricky—SI pain often mimics hock or stifle issues.

How to Treat SI Pain in Horses

1. Veterinary Treatment

• Rest and controlled exercise
• Anti-inflammatories or joint injections
• Shockwave therapy
• Chiropractic or acupuncture

2. Topical Support

Here’s where you can be your horse’s hero—every day.

• Draw It Out® 16oz Gel: Soothes inflammation, penetrates deep, and applies clean.
• MasterMudd™: Powerful support for sore backs and haunches.
• SilverHoof EQ Therapy®: Long-lasting topical therapy to maintain comfort.

SI Joint Rehab & Strengthening

Rehab is critical. It’s not just about resting—it’s about rebalancing.

• Pole work and ground exercises
• Long and low stretching under saddle
• Carrot stretches and core activation
• Proper warm-up and cool-down routines
• Use EQUINE|DEFENDER™ K Tape for light, daily support

How to Prevent SI Pain

• Condition your horse properly (especially after time off)
• Check saddle fit regularly
• Vary your work routine
• Use liniment post-ride to minimize inflammation
• Support topline development with supplements or PEMF/massage

Support That Works—For You and Your Horse

SI joint care takes a team approach: rider, vet, bodyworker, and—you guessed it—trusted products that actually work.

That’s why riders across the country turn to Draw It Out®. It’s liniment done right:

• No burn
• No nonsense
• Just clean, powerful, FEI-safe results

Ready to Support Your Horse's SI Recovery?

• Try the Draw It Out® 16oz Gel
• Add SilverHoof EQ Therapy® for extended support
• Use RESTOREaHORSE® Salve for localized relief
• Tape smart with EQUINE|DEFENDER™ K Tape

Real Riders. Real Recovery.

Want to see how others rehabbed their horses?
Check out our Draw It Out® Success Stories