Understanding Roached Backs in Horses: How Bodywork Can Help
- Dr. Angelique Barbara
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
A horse’s topline tells us a lot about its health, strength, and comfort. While some postural changes are minor, others—like a roached back—can significantly affect the way a horse moves and feels. If you’ve ever seen a horse with an abnormally arched back, you may have wondered what it means and how you can support them.
In this article, we’ll explore what a roached back is, what causes it, and how bodywork can play a powerful role in helping these horses live more comfortably.
What is a Roached Back?
A roached back (sometimes called a “roach back”) is when the spine has a visible, excessive upward arch, usually in the thoracic or lumbar region. Unlike a swayback (lordosis), which dips downward, a roached back curves upward.
Common Causes:
Congenital – Some horses are born with the condition due to genetic factors.
Injury or Trauma – A past fall, accident, or spinal injury may result in long-term structural changes.
Compensation – Horses may develop a roached back as a way to protect themselves from pain in another area (such as hocks, SI joint, or stifles).
Poor Conditioning or Saddle Fit – Chronic strain and improper tack can encourage abnormal posture over time.
How Does a Roached Back Affect the Horse?
The altered spinal shape often limits flexibility and can put extra strain on surrounding muscles, ligaments, and joints. Some horses with a roached back may:
Have shortened strides or restricted movement.
Struggle with collection or carrying weight evenly.
Experience back soreness or tension in compensating muscles.
Develop secondary issues in the SI joint, hips, or shoulders.
It’s important to note that while a roached back changes a horse’s biomechanics, many horses can still live happy, functional lives with the right care.
How Bodywork Can Help Horses with a Roached Back
While bodywork can’t change the structural shape of the spine, it can significantly improve comfort, mobility, and overall wellness.
✨ Massage Therapy
Releases tension in overworked muscles, improves circulation, and helps restore balance to the topline and hind end.
✨ Craniosacral Therapy
Gently works with the spinal system to increase relaxation, reduce restrictions, and encourage freer movement through the back.
✨ Animal Neuro-Myofascial Release Technique (ANMR)
Supports body alignment by addressing restrictions in fascia and nervous system communication, helping the horse move with more ease.
✨ Laser Acupuncture
Provides a non-invasive way to stimulate acupuncture points, reduce pain, improve lymphatic flow, and encourage flexibility.
Other Supportive Approaches
Proper Saddle Fit – Ensuring no added pressure on the curved spine.
Core Strengthening Exercises – Such as hill work, raised pole work, and carrot stretches (as tolerated).
Veterinary Care – To rule out underlying conditions and monitor long-term wellness.
Final Thoughts
A roached back doesn’t have to mean discomfort or limitation. With the right combination of bodywork, proper conditioning, and supportive care, horses with this condition can feel better, move more freely, and enjoy an excellent quality of life.
If you have a horse with a roached back—or are working with one in your practice—consider incorporating bodywork into their care plan. It’s a gentle yet powerful way to support them holistically.