6 Signs of Sacroiliac Disease in Horses: Key Indicators to Watch

Sacroiliac (SI) disease is increasingly recognised as a significant health issue affecting competition horses across the UK. Its diagnosis can be challenging for vets due to the wide range of clinical signs involved. However, identifying early and specific signs can help owners and vets take timely action to support horse wellbeing.

This guide presents six key signs recommended by vet Van Wessum, based on extensive observation of horses suffering from SI disease. Recognising these symptoms assists in early detection and allows for professional treatment to be sought promptly.

How to Identify Sacroiliac Disease in Your Horse

Early recognition of sacroiliac disease is crucial for effective management. Owners should carefully observe their horse's movement and posture for the following signs:

1. Narrow Tracking Behind

Horses experiencing SI disease often begin to track with their hind feet closely together, almost in a straight line. This gait alteration is subtle at the walk but becomes much clearer at the trot, signalling changes in pelvic stability.

2. Altered Lateral Walk or Pacing Gait

When asked to work on a serpentine or circle, affected horses show their front and hind limbs moving forward simultaneously on the same side, resembling a pacing gait. This is linked to decreased spinal flexibility and increased tension around the lower back and pelvis.

3. Asymmetry in Hip or Haunch Position

An affected horse often holds one hip lower than the other, creating the appearance of bending to one side. This is most apparent during lunging on circles, where the hind limbs fail to track the front limbs accurately, reflecting pelvic imbalance caused by the SI joint problem.

4. Changed Tail Carriage

Typically, horses hold their tails straight out when working, with breed-specific exceptions like the Arabian horse. In horses with sacroiliac disease, the tail is often locked or carried to one side during bending exercises, signalling discomfort or dysfunction in the pelvic region.

5. "Bunny Hop" Canter

The normal three-beat canter is replaced by a pattern where the hind feet hit the ground simultaneously causing a "bunny hop" effect. It is important to distinguish this from temporary spirited behavior, so canter the horse for several strides to confirm this altered gait is consistent.

6. Reduced Flexibility in the Lumbosacral Region

This sign typically requires vet examination, involving manipulation of the SI region. The vet gently presses on the point of the hip and pulls the tail from side to side, assessing symmetry of movement. Differences in ventral or lateral flexibility often indicate an issue with the SI joint, requiring professional diagnosis.

Van Wessum suggests that the presence of at least three of these indicators should raise concern and prompt veterinary assessment. Fewer signs may suggest alternative health or musculoskeletal problems.

Supporting Your Horse’s Recovery

Thankfully, with appropriate treatment, many clinical signs of sacroiliac disease improve over time. Early diagnosis enables vets to recommend therapies such as targeted physiotherapy, controlled exercise, and medication, making a significant difference to the horse's comfort and performance.

Vets now have clearer clinical indicators to diagnose SI disease, which improves the chances of initiating effective treatment earlier than before. Owners should remain vigilant for changes in their horse's gait or tail carriage and seek veterinary advice if concerned.

Conclusion

If you notice changes in your horse’s movement or posture, sacroiliac disease may be a contributing factor. Armed with these six key signs identified by Van Wessum, owners can better monitor their horses and work with vets to ensure timely, responsible care. Early attention to these symptoms greatly aids in restoring the horse's comfort and athletic ability.