A sore back can show up as tension, hollowing, short strides, girthiness, or behavior changes under saddle. This guide helps you understand what back soreness really means, what to check, and when soreness signals deeper issues.
Your horse’s back absorbs impact, stabilizes movement, and carries the weight of the rider. When it becomes sore, it signals strain, tension, weakness, or compensation for pain elsewhere.
Some horses show mild stiffness; others show dramatic behavior changes because the back is a sensitive feedback zone.
Back soreness is often the symptom — not the root cause — which is why early observation matters.
Use this plan when your horse is not lame, has mild tension, and shows no heat or major behavioral changes.
Start rides with long, low stretching at the walk and trot. Encourage relaxation before adding difficulty or collection.
Hill work, poles, transitions within the gait, and engagement work help develop the topline and protect the back.
Consistent comfort routines help the long back muscles recover from training demands and reduce tension buildup.
Early signs include tension during grooming, girthiness, hollowing under saddle, stiff transitions, reluctance to move forward, or short-strided movement.
Yes. Poorly fitted saddles are one of the most common causes of back soreness due to pinching, pressure points, and uneven weight distribution.
Back soreness after rides can come from muscle fatigue, weak topline, poor warmup, rider imbalance, or working on difficult footing.
Avoid riding if your horse shows clear discomfort, explosive behavior, heat, or swelling along the back. Riding through pain increases risk of strain or injury.
Draw It Out® products support soft tissue comfort and circulation along key muscle groups. Riders use them across the back, loins, and girth area as part of warmups, cooldowns, and recovery routines.
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It stays on the legs longer and can be used on cuts and bumps
Appreciate that, Sandra! Our gel was made to stay put and do its job—whether it’s on legs after a hard ride or a few pesky bumps that need some care. Thanks for trusting Draw It Out® to keep your horse feeling their best.
