How to Identify Behavioral Issues That May Be Pain-Related
Horses communicate pain through their behavior, often showing subtle signs that can be mistaken for training or temperament issues. Dr. Sue Dyson’s Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram (RHpE) provides a scientifically validated checklist of 24 specific behaviors that indicate musculoskeletal pain in ridden horses. These behaviors are grouped into facial markers, body markers, and gait markers, offering a structured approach to identifying discomfort.
In this blog, we’ll explore these markers, summarize Dyson’s findings, and outline actionable steps to ensure your horse’s well-being.
Understanding the Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram (RHpE)
The RHpE is a behavioral scoring system that identifies pain-related behaviors in ridden horses. A score of 8 or more behaviors in a 10-minute assessment strongly indicates pain. It provides a valuable tool for horse owners, riders, and professionals to detect subtle signs of discomfort.
Horses are assessed during their full repertoire of movements after a warm-up, and behaviors are categorized as facial markers, body markers, and gait markers.
1. Facial Markers of Pain
Facial expressions are often the first indicators of discomfort. The RHpE identifies these specific markers:
Ears Back: Ears held behind the vertical position for at least five seconds.
Eyes Closed: Half-closed or fully closed eyes for 2–5 seconds.
White of the Eye: Repeated exposure of the sclera (white of the eye), unless natural due to pigmentation.
Intense Stare: A zoned-out or glazed expression lasting at least five seconds.
Mouth Open/Close: Separation of teeth for at least 10 seconds or repeated opening and shutting of the mouth.
Tongue Out: Tongue hanging out or moving in and out repeatedly.
Bit Pulled Through: The bit is visibly pulled to one side of the horse’s mouth.
What to Watch For: Persistent facial expressions like a tense muzzle, asymmetrical ear positions, or repeated mouth movements during ridden work are strong indicators of pain.
2. Body Markers of Pain
Changes in posture and head position can signal discomfort. Key body markers in the RHpE include:
Head Up/Down: Repeated head movement that is not in rhythm with the trot.
Head Tilt: Persistent tilting of the head.
Above Vertical: Holding the head more than 30 degrees in front of vertical for at least 10 seconds.
Behind Vertical: Holding the head more than 10 degrees behind vertical for at least 10 seconds.
Head Side to Side: Repeated tossing, twisting, or swinging of the head.
Tail Position: Crooked tail held to one side or tightly clamped to the midline.
Tail Swishing: Frequent tail swishing or lashing during work.
What to Watch For: Unusual or repeated movements such as head tossing or tail swishing, especially during transitions or sustained movements, can indicate underlying pain.
3. Gait Markers of Pain
Irregularities in gait or movement often suggest discomfort. The RHpE outlines these gait markers:
Rushed Gait: More than 40 trot steps per 15 seconds, often with irregular rhythm or repeated speed changes.
Slowed Gait: Fewer than 35 trot steps per 15 seconds, resembling a passage-like trot.
Moving on Three Tracks: Crooked movement where the hindlimbs do not follow the forelimbs’ tracks.
Canter Dysfunction: Incorrect lead, disunited canter, or repeated lead changes.
Spontaneous Change of Pace: Breaking from one gait to another without being cued (e.g., canter to trot).
Stumbling or Toe Dragging: Repeated hindlimb toe dragging or stumbling in front or behind.
Rearing, Bucking, or Spooking: Sudden changes in direction, spooking, or resistance to go forward.
What to Watch For: Horses showing difficulty maintaining rhythm, moving crookedly, or spontaneously changing gaits often experience discomfort.
What to Do if You Notice Pain-Related Behaviors
If your horse exhibits multiple pain-related markers, it’s essential to take action:
1. Observe and Record
Document when and how the behaviors occur.
Take videos of ridden sessions to share with professionals for evaluation.
2. Rule Out Equipment Issues
Have a professional saddle fitter assess your tack for fit and pressure points.
Check bits, girths, and other equipment for signs of wear or improper fitting.
3. Consult Professionals
Veterinarian: Perform a lameness exam, imaging, and other diagnostic tests.
Equine Physiotherapist: Assess biomechanics and muscle function, addressing tension or restrictions.
Farrier: Evaluate hoof balance and shoeing for potential contributions to discomfort.
4. Implement a Treatment Plan
Work with your team to create a rehabilitation program tailored to your horse’s needs.
Adjust training routines to include rest and recovery periods.
Prevention: Setting Your Horse Up for Comfort
Preventing pain-related behaviors starts with a proactive approach:
Routine Check-Ups: Schedule regular vet, farrier, and physiotherapy appointments.
Gradual Conditioning: Build fitness progressively to reduce strain.
Quality Equipment: Invest in tack that fits your horse’s unique shape and needs.
Why Early Intervention Matters
The RHpE shows that horses rarely exhibit these behaviors without reason. Ignoring these signs can lead to chronic issues, reduced performance, and a decline in your horse’s quality of life. Recognizing and addressing pain early ensures your horse’s comfort and strengthens your partnership.
Need Help?
At Thrive Equine Physio, we specialize in identifying and addressing pain-related behaviors with evidence-based care. If you suspect your horse may be experiencing discomfort, contact us today to discuss how we can help.
Key Takeaways
The RHpE identifies 24 pain-related behaviors grouped into facial, body, and gait markers.
A score of 8 or more behaviors in a session strongly indicates musculoskeletal pain.
Early detection and professional care ensure your horse’s health, comfort, and performance.