Introduction

Back pain and dysfunction can lead to poor performance and cause alterations in a horse’s spinal kinematics. It can, however, be difficult to diagnose the exact cause of dysfunction in horses as subjective information can be limited, limb and spine issues can be interrelated and other external factors, such as the rider and saddle fit, can have a significant impact on a horse’s movement. All of these factors must be considered in the assessment of horses who present with back pain in order to develop the optimal management plan. The aim of this course is to introduce you to the many facets of the physiotherapy assessment for the equine spine and specific management options.

Learning outcomes

At the end of this course you will be able to:

• discuss the anatomy of the equine spine and head
• interpret the objective tests commonly used when assessing an equine patient with spinal pain
• summarise key points about saddle fit and the ridden assessment for equine patients
• describe specific interventions for both the rider and horse that can benefit equine patients with spinal pain
• discuss conditions that commonly affect the equine spine

Target audience

This course is aimed at Physiotherapy and Physical Therapy clinicians, students and assistants. Other interested professionals such as athletic trainers, occupational therapists, nurses or medical doctors interested in this subject are also invited to participate.

Practicalities

• Availability - this course is online and can be completed on your own schedule.
• Hours of Learning - No deadlines are applied to this course and it can be started and completed in your own time according to your personal schedule. We expect the required elements to take around 3.5-4 hours depending on your schedule and learning style. Additionally there are many optional resources provided and if you choose to review these the course could take longer to complete.
• Types of Activities - This course includes instructional and/or practical videos, reading activities, AI supported learning activities, reflection, evaluation forms, a quiz and additional resources.
• Certificates - At the end of the course, when you have completed all of the required elements, you will be able to download a certificate of completion and 3.5 Plus points will be added to your personalised learning dashboard.

Instructor financial and non-financial disclosures

Petra Zikmann: No relevant relationships disclosed by instructor.

Accessibility and Non-Discrimination Policy

Physiopedia Plus is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible learning environment for all participants. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, colour, national origin, religion, sex, disability, military status, sexual orientation or age in any aspect of our continuing education services. We are dedicated to ensuring that all learners can fully participate in our programmes. Participants who require accommodations or have special needs are encouraged to contact us with details so that we can make all reasonable efforts to meet these requirements.