Can Horses Get Headaches? Understanding Equine Head Pain and How Bodywork can Help

When we think of headaches, we often think of humans reaching for painkillers or lying down in a dark room. But what about our equine companions? Horses may not be able to verbally tell us they're in pain, but that doesn't mean they're immune to headaches.

In fact, horses can and do experience head pain --and understanding the signs and solutions can make a world of difference in your horse's quality of life.

Signs a Horse Might Have a Headache

Recognizing a headache in a horse requires subtle observation and palpation skills. Common indicators include:

• Head shyness or aversion to touch around the poll, ears, or forehead

• Eye dullness or sensitivity to light

• Frequent head shaking or rubbing

• Grinding teeth or excessive yawning

• Behavioral changes such as irritability, anxiety, or withdrawal

• Uneven movement or head carriage during gait analysis

• TMJ tension or asymmetry

Headaches in horses may stem from:

• Cranial bone restrictions or misalignments

• TMJ (temporomandibular joint) tension

• Poll tightness or cervical misalignment

• Dental issues or poor bit fit

• Chronic tension due to improper saddle fit or rider imbalance

• Environmental stress or trauma

Holistic Techniques for Assessment

During an initial session, a skilled practitioner might perform the following:

• Gait analysis: Look for irregular head carriage or compensatory patterns

• Palpation: Check for tension in the poll, TMJ, occipital ridge, and facial bones

• Cranial symmetry check: Visual and tactile examination for asymmetries

• Range of motion: Evaluate TMJ and cervical spine mobility

• Vital signs: Assess for subtle signs of systemic stress or discomfort

Holistic Modalities for Relief

Once a headache is suspected, a variety of non-invasive, integrative therapies can help relieve discomfort and restore balance:

1. Craniosacral Therapy

CST gently releases restrictions in the craniosacral system, which may involve the dura mater, cranial bones, and cerebrospinal fluid. Practitioners often see significant relaxation and behavioral shifts after releasing the occiput, sphenoid, or TMJ areas.

2. Neuromyofascial Release

Releasing fascial restrictions throughout the head, neck, and shoulders can reduce tension contributing to head pain. This method is especially useful for horses with compensatory movement patterns.

3. Kinesiology Taping

Taping for TMJ support, poll pain, or cranial release can help reduce inflammation, support structural alignment, and improve proprioception.

4. Cold Laser Therapy

Targeted application to trigger points or tension zones around the poll and TMJ can promote circulation, reduce inflammation, and speed healing.

5. Acupressure

Equine acupressure has shown promising results for neurological and pain-related issues. Specific points like GV20 (Bai Hui of the head) can help balance the nervous system and relieve headaches.

Preventative and Supportive Care

To support horses prone to headaches:

• Regular bodywork sessions (CST, massage, NMRT)

• Properly fitted tack and equipment

• Routine dental care and bit fitting checks

• Low-stress environments and turnout opportunities

• Collaboration with veterinarians, chiropractors, and holistic practitioners

Final Thoughts

Headaches in horses may be silent, but their effects are anything but subtle. A holistic approach that combines observation, gentle techniques, and body-centered therapy can profoundly improve equine well-being and performance. By learning to read the signs and apply the right modalities, you not only help alleviate pain — you deepen your connection to the horse.

Want to learn more about how you can help horses with headaches? View our courses