How to Treat a Horse for Muscle Soreness

Horses, just like their human counterparts, are susceptible to everyday aches and pains like muscle soreness. An extra long workout or too long in the stall can result in cramps and swelling, but fortunately, muscle soreness in horses is not difficult to treat.

Things You'll Need

  • Liniment
  • Pillow wraps
  • Polo wraps
  • Heating pad
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Instructions

    • 1

      Identify the source of the muscle soreness in your horse. For example, if he sinks his back when you try to mount, he is probably sore in the back or croup. If he has trouble reaching forward with his back legs, the soreness might be in his hindquarters or hocks.

    • 2

      Try to pinpoint why your horse is experiencing muscle soreness. For example, did you work him longer than usual yesterday? Or has he been stuck in his stall because of inclement weather outside? This will help you diagnose and treat the problem.

    • 3

      Give the horse a few days off to recuperate. Some trainers will recommend you work him through the muscle soreness, but this can actually make the problem worse. If anything, lunge him at a trot in the round pen to work out the kinks.

    • 4

      Prepare a liniment bath for your horse with four parts water to one part liniment. Sponge it over the areas where he is experiencing muscle soreness, then make sure to get all the surrounding areas. This will help to relieve tension, reduce swelling and increase blood flow.

    • 5

      Place a heating pad on your horse and hold it there for 15 minutes twice a day if the muscle soreness doesn't go away.