horse trips behind

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When should we worry about a horse stumbling? *H&H VIP*

If you have ridden horses for long enough, it’s likely you’ll have experienced that terrifying feeling of a horse buckling underneath you as he trips. It’s a dangerous situation for both horse and rider and a risk we should look to minimise, even though horses are normally adept at rescuing themselves before they hit the ground.

Due to the work we ask our horses to perform, occasional tripping is unavoidable, but when does it become a concern?

Tripping can be considered abnormal if it occurs more than twice per ridden session or if the horse always stumbles on the same leg. An additional warning sign is when the problem can be reproduced consistently during a certain movement or situation, such as exercising up or down an incline or when the horse is asked for increased poll flexion.

A particularly poor or slow recovery from a stumble is also concerning. Horses usually snap back upright as fast as possible, almost embarrassed by their ineptitude, so a laboured return to their feet warrants investigation.

There are a variety of tripping causes that can be ruled out by an owner or through a simple veterinary examination. Tripping in a young, unfit, unbalanced or distracted horse should improve with age and/or training. An obese animal is likely to trip less with an appropriate diet and exercise programme. Partially sighted animals and those with exercise intolerance or advanced cardiac disease are all more likely to trip when exercised, but these conditions would be diagnosed swiftly by a vet due to signs other than tripping.

Further investigation will require a detailed veterinary history and clinical examination, as there is often more than one condition at play.

Assuming there are no immediately obvious causes, addressing any foot issues will be beneficial, whatever the cause of tripping, and is often the solution in simple cases. Long toes on front or hind feet will cause delayed “breakover”, meaning the foot is slower to move in front of the horse and down onto the ground to bear weight.

In addition, a longer toe is closer to the ground through the arc of flight, so is more likely to cause a stumble. And excessively long hind feet can interfere with the heels of the front feet.

Careful trimming, with input from both vet and farrier, can improve foot shape and balance dramatically to reduce stumbling. Rolling the toe — by rounding the front edge of any chosen shoe — or using bar or reverse shoes, will alter the action of the foot during motion and can improve the biomechanics of the limb.

Pinpointing pain

A horse who continues to trip should be assessed for the presence of orthopaedic disease causing pain or lameness, or a neurological condition affecting limb coordination.

Orthopaedic conditions can mean a horse adapts his movement to minimise the degree of pain, potentially causing tripping.

An examination — with flexion tests, lungeing on soft and hard surfaces and ridden exercise — will often demonstrate a lameness, which can then be investigated with nerve and joint blocks to isolate the source of pain. Diagnostic imaging such as X-rays, ultrasound scans, MRI or CT will follow to identify the severity of the problem.

Causes of lameness-induced tripping include navicular disease, coffin joint pain, ringbone and arthritis of the fetlock or knee. These are usually straightforward to diagnose and, depending upon severity, are often manageable with a combination of remedial shoeing, intra-articular medication and controlled exercise. Regular physiotherapy is beneficial, along with non steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines prescribed by your vet, such as phenylbutazone (bute), and a good-quality joint supplement.

Problems higher up the leg can also produce stumbling, as they will limit the degree of protraction (extension of the limb) during locomotion. Shoulder issues, such as arthritis or bicipital bursitis (inflammation of a fluid-filled joint bursa, or sac), can present in this manner.

Some horses may stumble due to an orthopaedic issue without appearing lame. The neck, back and pelvis are all on the shortlist in such cases, but identifying the source of pain can be challenging. Blocks of these regions are technically difficult and carry a risk of inadvertent anaesthesia of major nerves, which can cause the horse to become ataxic (wobbly).

Without obvious lameness, it can be tricky to assess improvements in a horse’s movement after local anaesthesia. If tripping is intermittent, it is hard to be sure of genuine improvement during a short assessment after nerve or joint blocks. Feedback from an experienced jockey who can ride the horse before and after any blocks is one of the most valuable aids to interpretation.

Suspect areas can be screened for injuries with diagnostic imaging, which may include nuclear scintigraphy (bone scanning). Arthritis in the neck, back or pelvic region can be treated with ultrasound-guided intra-articular corticosteroid injections.

“Kissing spine” lesions can be treated with local infiltrations of corticosteroids or may benefit from surgery, while sacroiliac disease can be managed with anti-inflammatories and shockwave therapy, among other options.

Physiotherapy and targeted rehabilitation programmes also help in improving the mobility of affected areas, maintaining flexibility and developing the horse’s core strength.

Tipping the balance

Neurological disease is the biggest worry, particularly with the horse who trips with his hindlimbs. This can be difficult to diagnose in subtle cases.

A common cause is “wobblers” syndrome, which occurs when incorrectly formed vertebrae in the neck pinch the spinal cord. Arthritis of the neck joints or the growth of new bone (callus) around a fracture site can also create pressure on the spinal cord and, in the early stages, cause hindlimb weakness, which can manifest itself as tripping.

If the condition worsens, neurological signs become more obvious and are characterised by difficulty turning in tight circles, dragging of hindlimb toes and sometimes even forelimb incoordination. Neck X-rays will often confirm the condition and dictate the appropriate therapy.

Treatment options range from aggressive nutritional and exercise management in young animals that have developed too rapidly, resulting in neck instability, through to local injections of corticosteroids into affected joints to reduce inflammation. Surgical stabilisation of the neck joints may be an option. Fusion of the vertebral bodies results in around 60% of patients resuming a good degree of athletic function.

There are a wide range of causes of tripping and stumbling. If the problem proves dangerous or becomes more regular, seek veterinary attention, so the horse can be fully assessed.

Ref Horse & Hound; 20 June 2019

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Oops! My Horse Stumbles!

• April 9, 2023
• ⎯ Elaine Pascoe

Home » Health » Anatomy » Oops! My Horse Stumbles!

Your horse suddenly pitches forward and drops out from under you. For a split second, his balance and yours teeter on the brink. Few things are more alarming than a horse stumbling, even for an experienced rider: Will he go down and take you with him?

Horses usually manage to stay upright when they trip, and (after you catch your breath) it’s tempting to quickly laugh these incidents off. Even when a horse stumbles repeatedly, you’ll hear people dismiss it: “He’s just lazy,” or “That’s just him.”

Yet it takes only one misstep for Twinkletoes to go down and flip over, with results that we’d all rather not contemplate. But let’s, briefly, contemplate them: You could be killed. So could your horse.

This is a problem you can’t ignore.

Stumbling in horses can be a training issue, but it can also have physical causes. We asked equine veterinarian Duncan Peters of Lexington, Kentucky, to explain those causes and what you can do to correct them. For the training angle, we went to longtime Massachusetts eventer Mark Weissbecker; you’ll find his advice in “Riding a Stumble” on the next page.

Anatomy of a Stumble When your horse takes a good step forward, he brings his foreleg out in front of his body and sets his foot down squarely, the heel landing a split second before the toe sets down. He shifts his weight onto the bony column of the leg as his body passes over it, stabilizing the limb with ligaments, tendons, and muscles. Then the heel lifts, and the foot breaks over at the toe to come up and move forward again.

When he trips, it’s usually because he catches a toe. This can happen if he takes a short stride, puts his foot down toe first, or just fails to clear a tree root or some other obstacle in his path. The leg knuckles over instead of landing squarely, and suddenly it isn’t there to support his weight. He tips forward. Maybe it’s a momentary bobble and he quickly regains his footing. Maybe he scrambles to get his feet back under himself. Or maybe he goes down.

Fatigue, speed, and deep or uneven footing increase the risk of stumbling. In fact, given the right circumstances, any horse can stumble: He’s distracted?he looks off to the side to check out his buddies in the pasture or a person standing at the rail?and forgets to think about how and where he’s putting his feet down.

Inattentiveness is probably the most common cause of stumbling, especially for young horses, Dr. Peters says. This is a training and riding issue; it’s up to you, the rider, to keep your horse balanced, attentive to your aids, and thinking about where he’s going.

When do you know you have a more serious problem? Here are two red flags:

• Your horse stumbles or trips frequently or predictably. “When you begin to anticipate that your horse will trip in a given situation, such as going downhill or landing from a fence,” says Dr. Peters, “you need to find out what’s going on.”
• Your horse has trouble recovering his balance. He catches a toe, a problem that should be minor, but then scrambles to get his feet back under himself?or even goes down on his knees.

In many cases, getting to the bottom of a stumbling problem calls for a team effort, involving your vet, your farrier, and your trainer. Whoever you’re working with has to want to figure out the problem, not brush it off. Here, we’ll cover five common causes.

It’s His Build Some conformation faults increase the risk of stumbling. The most common, Dr. Peters says, is a “downhill” build.

What happens: Horses typically carry 60 percent of their weight on their forelimbs. A horse that’s built downhill, with his hindquarters higher than his withers, carries extra weight on his forehand. The additional weight can make it harder for him to get his legs out in front of himself. He takes choppy strides as he puts his front feet down to catch himself, and thus is more likely to hook a toe and stumble?especially at speed.

Many young horses go through phases in which their hindquarters briefly outgrow their withers. In most of these cases, the horses’ withers eventually catch up. But some horses mature with this conformation, which a low head carriage will exacerbate.

On the other hand, some conformation faults that would seem most likely to cause stumbling may not, Dr. Peters says. In his experience, a horse that is over at the knee (knees cocked forward) is not more likely to stumble?as long as the lower-leg conformation is normal. But if the same horse also has very steep pasterns, he could be in trouble.

Clues: You should be able to spot downhill conformation if you stand your horse up and take an unbiased look at him from the side. You may feel it when you ride, too?this build tends to push your weight forward in the saddle, and the horse may tend to hang on the reins.

What to do: You may be able to improve a downhill horse’s balance through training and conditioning, strengthening his hindquarters and teaching him to carry more of his weight with his hind end. But unless he grows out of his unbalanced build, the deck will always be somewhat stacked against you, Dr. Peters says. Ultimately, you may not be able to significantly change his way of going?and so may need to limit what he does: He may be fine for light pleasure riding, but eventing, jumping, or other jobs that are tiring or call for speed may be too dangerous. Likewise, you may need to avoid deep footing or rough ground.

It’s His Feet Long toes catch the ground easily and break over with difficulty, increasing the chance of a stumble.

What happens: Long toes commonly occur along with underrun heels?as the hoof capsule grows out, the toe tends to lengthen and the heels begin to curl forward, so that they no longer support the foot. That encourages the horse to stab his toe and trip.

A horse’s foot may be predisposed to long toes, but this problem can also be man-made?the result of inadequate shoeing or of letting too much time pass between visits from the farrier.

Clues: In addition to underrun heels, a broken-back hoof axis (in which the angle of the pastern is steeper than the angle of the hoof wall) can develop with long toes. And although there’s no set rule for shoeing intervals, you could be waiting too long if your horse goes more than six weeks between shoeings.

What to do: Consult with your farrier and your veterinarian, and have them work as a team to manage your horse’s feet. You may need to have him shod more often, or the farrier may need to take a new approach that will shorten your horse’s toes and give him more support at the heels.

He’s In Pain Even before discomfort leads to obvious lameness, it can make a horse unwilling to extend his leg fully or put his foot down normally. As a result, he takes short, choppy strides and stabs his feet into the ground quickly?making it likely that he’ll catch a toe and trip.

What happens: Pain originating from a bruise or a developing abscess anywhere in the foot can cause a horse to stumble. But caudal heel pain?soreness at the back of the foot?is perhaps the most common cause of stumbling, Dr. Peters says.

In many cases, the problem involves key weight-bearing structures in the foot. Those structures include the coffin joint (where the coffin bone, small pastern bone, and wedge-shaped navicular bone meet) and the deep digital flexor tendon, which passes over the navicular bone at the heel before it attaches to the lower surface of the coffin bone. When the horse puts weight on his foot, these structures and related ligaments and soft tissues come under intense pressure; the navicular area, especially, is squeezed from above and below. If inflammation develops here, in the bone or surrounding tissues, each step the horse takes is painful. The horse then strides short and puts his foot down toe-first to avoid discomfort.

Problems in the pastern area can also cause a horse to trip. Ringbone is a form of osteoarthritis in which new bone is laid down around the coffin joint (low ringbone) or the pastern joint (high ringbone). The changes can limit range of motion and cause pain, leading the horse to shorten his stride and stab a toe. Pain from sprains or strains in this area can have the same result.

Pain from problems higher in the leg can also lead to stumbling. For example, a bone chip in the fetlock, the knee, or even the shoulder can make a horse unwilling to fully extend and weight a leg, leading to a shortened, stabby stride. Low-grade pain from subtle ligament or tendon problems can cause a stumbling gait.

Clues: As a horse with caudal heel pain jabs his foot down toe-first, he’ll often kick out a telltale puff of dust in front. He may also rest one or the other front foot by parking it out in front of his body. Although pain in both front feet is not unusual, many pain-related causes of stumbling affect just one leg?so the horse is most apt to trip with that leg. Look for swelling around joints or tendons by comparing one front leg to the other.

What to do: Call your vet, who can help track down the source of the problem through a physical exam, nerve blocks, and other diagnostic tools. By finding the problem and taking appropriate action, you may not only cure the horse’s stumbling but also stave off a more severe lameness.

The fix depends on the problem. Bruises and abscesses heal with rest, soaks, and poultices. Joint problems may respond to a combination of medication, joint supplements or injections, and shoeing changes. For instance, heel-sore horses may be helped by rolled or rockered toes or square-toe “natural balance” shoes, which allow the foot to break over more easily. Shock-absorbing pads may also help. Horses with low ringbone may be more comfortable in half-round shoes, in which the entire outer rim is rolled.

It’s Neurologic Coordinated movement depends on nerve signals that flow from the brain to the muscles and back from the muscles to the brain, signaling where the limbs are. If the lines of communication are broken, the horse may not have full control of his legs or even a clear idea of where his feet are. That, of course, makes him more likely to trip.

What happens: A number of conditions can play havoc with a horse’s balance and limb control. Spinal trauma, arthritis of the neck, wobbler syndrome (or cervical instability, a developmental defect of the neck bones that puts pressure on the spinal cord), and diseases such as equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM), Lyme disease, herpes-virus infection, inner-ear bacterial infections?all these can produce weakness or an altered gait. So can some neuromuscular conditions, such as forms of tying up (myositis).

Clues: Many neurologic conditions appear first as weakness in the hind legs or an abnormality in balance, Dr. Peters notes. A horse with neurologic problems may scramble and have trouble regaining his footing, or even fall down, as the result of what would be a minor stumble for another horse.

What to do: Call your vet, who can do a neurological exam?a series of simple tests designed to measure reflexes and make sure your horse can control his limbs and knows where his feet are. If the exam shows a problem, the vet will suggest further diagnostic work to find out what’s going on.

Some neurological problems respond better to treatment than others, so the outlook will depend on what the veterinarian finds. There’s good medication for EPM; but if the disease has caused too much nerve damage, the horse may not recover fully. Wobbler syndrome is difficult to treat. If the problem is arthritis, the horse may improve with some combination of medication, chiropractic treatment, and muscle stretching and careful warm-ups before work.

Diagnosing neuromuscular conditions such as tying up involves bloodwork and other tests. A lot of these problems can be managed with changes in the horse’s diet as well as his workload.

It’s, Um, His Rider The weight and the position of a rider can be factors in a horse that stumbles, Dr. Peters says.

What happens: A heavy load tires the horse and makes it harder for him to balance, two factors that increase the risk of stumbling. Although some people use 20 percent of the horse’s body weight as a yardstick for the maximum weight he can carry, there is no absolute rule; the true number may be more or less, depending on the horse’s build and level of fitness.

How the weight is carried also makes a difference. The area of the back over the heartgirth is considered the horse’s center of balance. The more the rider’s weight is ahead of this point, the bigger the load on the forehand. The horse is already carrying 60 percent of his body weight on his forehand; adding another 10 percent or so makes his balance less stable, especially as he tires during exercise.

Clues: The horse stumbles with one rider, but not with another who’s lighter or more balanced.

What to do: Ask a trainer whose opinion you respect to watch you ride, to see if your riding style or your weight is contributing to your horse’s stumbling. Although recognizing that you’re part of the problem may be difficult, doing so could help you avoid a disastrous fall.

An FEI-certified veterinarian, Duncan Peters, DVM, MS , heads the Sporthorse Program at Hagyard Equine Medical Center in Lexington, Kentucky.

Eventer Mark Weissbecker of Richmond, Massachusetts, and Southern Pines, North Carolina, has competed numerous horses at international levels, among them the 1990s stars Best Seller and Brevity and, more recently, Decordova. In 2004 he also rode Top Gallant to several preliminary-level wins.

This article originally appeared in the November 2004 issue of Practical Horseman magazine. To read more about neurological causes of stumbling, see “Is He Neurologic?” in the November 2011 issue .

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How to ride the stumble out of your horse.

* This article is not about a health issue that may cause stumbling; rather, it is about a riding-related loss of balance. If any health problem is suspected, please consult with a veterinarian. 

Do you have a horse that seems to regularly trip or stumble, either in the front or hind end?

The footing is good. The path is clear. There were no sudden changes to your direction.

The horse is sound and you know the tack fits well. His feet are trimmed. You've had the vet out and she confirmed that there are no other underlying physical issues.

Yet your horse stumbles here, trips there, and as time goes on, you learn to just quietly ignore it. After all, the horse is trying his best and there's nothing you can do, right?

If you listen carefully, you might even discover that you are more a part of the equation than you give yourself credit for.

It might be something you are doing. Or it might be something you are NOT doing !

Be an active rider so you can help your horse through these moments. Your strong problem-solving skills are just the ticket to helping your horse develop better balance during riding.

Reasons for Stumbling

The root problem might be one, or a combination of these ideas.

1. Horse is heavy on the forehand.

We know the tell-tale signs for that. The horse is heavy on the bit. The front leg strides are bigger than the hind leg strides. The horse might even feel like he is on a downward slope, leaning in to the ground rather than up away from it.

2. Horse's outline is too long and low.

This might come hand-in-hand with #1. Often, we feel we are being "nice" to let a horse stretch his neck up and/or down, because we are taught that a longer rein leads to a softer, lighter contact that is kind. What we aren't always told is that the horse might have to brace his back and tense his muscles to hold a longer body position, especially in order to deal with the weight of a rider in the saddle.

Add to the "strung-out" outline - a hind end that is no longer able to support the weight (because the hind legs have stretched beyond the horse's croup, thereby not allowing for adequate weight carriage) - and there you have it folks - the stumble!

3. Horse speeds up faster and faster in the same gait.

A horse that tends to move his legs faster and faster when you ask for more impulsion or a gait change is a good candidate for a stumble. Again, his weight (and yours) falls forward and the front legs have to carry the majority of the impact.

4. Inadequate engagement.

The opposite can also be true. The horse that "sucks back" is bracing with his front end, effectively pushing backward or lacking enough energy to maintain balance while progressing forward in space. This active tension can be a cause for stumbling.

5. Horse needs extra help on one side.

A horse with a weak side (for example, a weak left stifle) could have trouble bringing that hind leg up with the same amount of strength and fluidity as the rest of the body. After the true source of the problem is identified and addressed (i.e. call a veterinarian!), you can support that side with more active riding aimed at building up the muscles around the joint.

6. Horse is overly crooked.

Some horses are particularly stiff to one side. This might be influenced by a natural cause (born that way), or from previous incorrect riding. In either case, much attention needs to be given to at least straightening the horse (even if it is too difficult to get a true bend) while he is moving.

7. You shift your weight to the horse's forehand.

Riders often lean forward in movement. As bi-peds, it is what we are naturally programmed to do! However, "listen" carefully to your horse when he stumbles. If he tends to trip when you lean forward, you know the reason why. In this case, you will need to hold your weight back, even if you want to ride in two-point or go over a jump. You can hold your weight and change your posture - just be aware!

4 Steps to Prevent Stumbling

1. Leg on for impulsion.

Even the fast-footed horse can be disengaged and needs to bring his hind end underneath him. So put your legs on and be ready for more movement! Lighten the contact as you apply the legs.

2. Commit your body to the energy surge.

The horse should lurch forward a bit. This is good. Go with him. Be sure you don't stop the forward inclination by pulling back during the lurch moment. 

3. Straighten the horse (if needed).

Use the energy surge to straighten the horse, left or right as needed. Just guide the energy into straightness, don't stifle it.

4. Half-halt.

This is key. Without the half-halt immediately after the energy surge, you tell the horse to run away. You don't want your horse to flee your aids, so within a moment after your legs and straightness, you half-halt should come on (brace your seat, back, arms momentarily) to control the energy you just created.

*Then release .

The idea is to re-balance that energy surge to the hind end rather than let it run out the front end. Think half-halts and use them as often as necessary to help your horse maintain balance. Constantly work on that re-balance - you may need to do the whole thing three, four, five times in a row, in rhythm with the horse's strides , to help the horse understand he needs to sift his weight backward.

This might be very difficult for a horse (and rider) that is not used to working from the hind end. But it is essential, first, to prevent the stumble, and second, to keep the horse sound long-term. Good luck!

Did you try this? Let us know how it worked out in the comments below.

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Home » All Posts » Horses » Why does my horse trip so much?

Why does my horse trip so much?

A horse that has a tendency to trip or stumble can potentially cause safety concerns for their rider. And tripping in the middle of a dressage test or showjumping round could be disastrous for their competitive chances! While the occasional trip on uneven ground is probably nothing to be concerned about, if it happens with any regularity then it is definitely worth looking into a bit more closely.

Table of contents

Why is my horse tripping all the time, how do i investigate why my horse is tripping, what medical conditions can cause tripping, what about foot issues, you might also be interested in:.

There are quite a few reasons why your horse might be tripping or stumbling:

• There are several conditions of bones and joints that can cause tripping (along with other symptoms). Additionally, there are some neurological conditions that may be to blame. We will go into these in a bit more detail later.
• The old adage ‘no foot, no horse’ still rings true. Problems with your horse’s feet may result in tripping or falling. If your horse tends to trip when he is due to be trimmed or shod, perhaps his feet are getting overly long or unbalanced, resulting in tripping. In this case the problem may be solved by more frequent attention from your farrier.
• If your horse is unfit (or at least not fit enough for the work that you are asking of him), then his muscles and joints may be struggling to cope with exercise demands. This will result in weakness and stumbling. This may be especially relevant to youngsters which have not yet built up the muscle strength and endurance needed for ridden exercise.
• Issues with tack fit, such as a saddle that pinches, may cause discomfort to your horse, affecting his ability to move freely.
• Sometimes tripping is simply due to a lack of attention on your horse’s part. He may be getting distracted by what’s going on in the environment. Or he may be bored by the same schooling routine! In these cases, different locations or ridden techniques to keep his attention, such as half halts, may make a difference.

Firstly, it makes sense to think about when the tripping usually happens. Is it towards the end of a long hack or schooling session when your horse is tired? Is it when he is overdue to be shod? Or does it happen anytime? It’s also worth noting where it happens. Is it only when he is ridden or does it happen in the field? Does it happen on uneven ground, on the flat, uphill or downhill, on soft or hard surfaces?

Armed with the above information, the first port of call is to book a visit with your vet. They will discuss how and when the tripping happens. They can then assess your horse on the flat and ideally under saddle to look for any lameness or other signs of pain. Lameness may not always be obvious to the rider but even so can cause the horse discomfort and affect his gait. Your vet will check for any lameness. And if found, will be able to investigate this further to come to a diagnosis of the problem. This will often require techniques such as local anaesthesia (‘nerve blocks’) to more accurately determine the site of the lameness, and imaging such as ultrasound scans and radiographs (x-rays).  

One example of a condition that causes tripping is navicular syndrome . This term describes any condition that causes pain in the bones, joints or soft tissues in the rear part of your horse’s feet. It is more common in the front feet and in certain breeds. If your vet diagnoses navicular syndrome, there are various treatment methods that can be used by your vet and farrier to reduce the impact of the disease and improve your horse’s comfort and way of going.

Other causes of discomfort in your horse’s limbs and joints that can result in tripping include arthritis and tendon injuries . Conditions that result in back or neck pain, such as arthritis, could also cause tripping. 

Neurological conditions can manifest as tripping or falling. For example, ‘wobbler syndrome’ ( cervical vertebrae stenotic myelopathy to give it its technical name) is a condition where the bony vertebrae of the neck are too narrow, impinging on the spinal cord. This results in a range of problems with movement and balance. It often becomes apparent in young horses once they start ridden work. Unfortunately, this condition often means that a horse is not safe to ride, due to an unacceptably high risk that they might fall and injure themselves or their rider.

All of these conditions will be considered by your vet as part of their assessment.

If an issue with your horse’s feet is suspected as the cause of the tripping, your vet may recommend that your farrier assesses your horse’s foot balance. Your vet and your farrier can work together to amend your horse’s trimming regime. This may involve your vet taking foot x-rays to provide more information for the farrier. Remember that a horse’s feet grow slowly, so any changes to trimming or shoeing must be done gradually and it can take some time before you start seeing obvious results.

If none of the above physical problems can be identified, and you have had your horse’s tack fit checked, then factors such as fitness may come into play. A riding instructor may be able to advise you on techniques that can increase muscle strength. Aswell as keep your horse’s attention ‘on the job’ during ridden work.

So if you are concerned about your horse tripping up frequently, contact your vet in the first instance. They will be able to work with you and your farrier to get to the root of the problem.

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Why Does My Horse Stumble?

Possible Causes of Stumbling and Tripping

Does your horse stumble while you ride or drive it? All horses stumble occasionally, just as we trip over our own toes sometimes for no reason at all. But sometimes, stumbling is a sign of a physical problem.

Why Do Horses Stumble?

Horses can stumble or habitually trip for a number of different reasons. The most common reason is similar to why we take a misstep when the ground is rough, slippery, or uneven. Some horses are more 'trail-wise' than others and know how to keep their balance over rough terrain. Others have to learn this. There are several other factors that can cause a horse to stumble, some more serious than others.

If your horse is disinterested in his work or tired, he may stumble. Muscle fatigue can cause stumbling and foot-dragging. This is more common in unfit horses or young horses. Young horses, unused to carrying a rider may be unbalanced and stumble. This should stop once the horse understands how to balance the load he is carrying. 

Sometimes poorly fitting saddles can cause back pain that leads to stumbling. Poor saddle fit is responsible for many types of problems, both physical and behavioral.

Horses that travel with their heads up and backs hollowed may be more likely to stumble. If your horse carries his head too high, he may not be able to balance or even see where to place his feet. Consider taking a few lessons to see if you can correct any bad habits you might have formed and learn to help your horse carry a rider comfortably. A martingale may be added to a horses tack for safety purposes to limit the extent to which a horse can raise its head and provide the rider with more control.

Conformation

Conformation dictates how your horse uses its body and legs. Some conformational defects may predispose a horse to stumbling. Long pasterns, bench knees, and other leg problems can cause a horse to be a habitual stumbler. 

If the hooves are grown out too far or the toes are too long, your horse may be tripping over his own toes. Have your blacksmith assess the angles he is trimming the hooves and the type and weight of shoes if your horse is shod. 

Serious Causes

More serious physical problems can include joint, muscle, and nerve damage such as:

• Arthritis : inflammation inside a joint causing pain and stiffness.
• Navicular Syndrome : degeneration or damage to a small bone inside the hoof. Front feet are most often affected, and the lameness is more obvious.
• Sweeney : nerve damage that causes the shoulder muscles to atrophy. Sweeney is most commonly seen in driving horses and can be caused by the pressure of the harness on the shoulder. This can interfere with the horse's ability to move its leg forward.
• Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis : nerve damage in the spinal column due to protozoa. This is a serious disease some horses never recover from, and it can make them unsuitable to ride.
• Eyesight : cataracts, eye infections , and other eye/vision problems.
• Ringbone or side bones : bony growths on and below the pastern area. These can make a horse lame, or slightly 'off'.

What To Do If Your Horse Is Stumbling

There are lots of reasons a horse might stumble. If it happens consistently, contact your veterinarian or blacksmith to help you find and solve the problem. Your veterinarian can perform an exam and determine if further tests are necessary, such as X-rays. Your horse's blacksmith, or farrier, can asses your horse's hooves and shoeing.

Treatment for Stumbling

Treatment options for a stumbling horse will vary depending on the cause. In some cases, the treatment is as simple as having the hooves trimmed or the shoes adjusted. In other cases, a veterinarian may need to prescribe medications or administer joint injections. Surgery may be necessary to treat some serious physical conditions. Some conditions cannot be cured and will require long-term medications or treatments.

How to Prevent Stumbling in Horses

The best way to prevent stumbling is to take good care of your horse, especially the hooves. Clean your horse's hooves regularly and pay attention to anything that looks abnormal. Have your horse's hooves trimmed regularly and re-shoed as necessary.

Assess your saddle fit, or consult with a saddle fitter so your horse is more comfortable.

A horse may trip more often with an unbalanced rider. A good rider can help their horse keep their balance, especially where the going gets uneven. By improving your riding skills and getting into better shape, you can help prevent tripping and stumbling.

You can also prevent stumbling by contacting your veterinarian at the first sign of gait issues. Early detection and treatment can prevent some physical conditions from getting worse.

University US. Foal hoof care: when and how often to trim? Utah State University

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Is your horse a stumblebum? Here’s what you need to know to address dangerous stumbling.

• July 21, 2017
• ⎯ Clinton Anderson

A horse prone to stumbling is a nuisance at best and a health hazard at worst. It’s normal for a horse to trip or stumble every once in a while, but if tripping on the trail is becoming a regular thing for your horse, that means he’s in need of help.

I’m going to tell you how to address this problem. I’ll discuss the importance of ruling out physical causes, then give you a practical approach that will encourage him to mind how he steps.

Why Address Stumbling?

Just like us, horses sometimes take a misstep, especially if the ground is rough or uneven. It’s when stumbling becomes a common occurrence that you must address it. If it’s not a health-related issue (more on that in a moment), then the culprit is usually a lazy horse that’s not paying attention, a shortcoming that can be extremely dangerous to you and him both.

Stumbling can cause your horse to fall down on the trail, go over a steep drop-off, or jolt you suddenly out of the saddle. And, as with everything we do with our horses, the more you let one trip, the better he gets at it. Before long, it’s an ingrained habit.

So take action promptly once you notice a genuine issue.

Consult Your Vet, Farrier

Your first job is to rule out physical or health problems that could be making your horse trip.

Start with his feet. Do you allow him to go too long between trimmings or shoeings, resulting in overlong hooves? Is your farrier skilled at providing a correct, balanced trim that allows for an easy breakover of the foot?

Also work with your vet to rule out lameness, as even a subtle issue can cause stumbling. Is your horse sore on one or more of his feet? Anything from sole bruising to navicular issues could be to blame.

Finally, is he suffering a neurological issue that could cause him to stumble? EPM (equine protozoal myeloencephalitis) is one example of a disease that can lead to persistent stumbling.

If there are no physical or health problems at the root of your horse’s behavior, move on to training him away from it.

Make Him Pay Attention

Frequent stumbling without cause is a sure sign your horse is letting his mind wander rather than concentrating on the task at hand. Remember, no matter what you’re doing with your horse, he’s responsible for his feet—where he places them and how fast he moves them. If he’s not paying attention to his feet, you’re going to have to give him a reason to do so.

When he stumbles, immediately pick up on one rein and cue him with your leg on the same side to bend him around in a circle. You might thump his belly with the heel of your boot, or roll your spur up his side—whatever it takes to hustle his feet as you turn him in a circle. If he ignores your leg, spank his hindquarters with the end of your mecate or a dressage whip. Move him vigorously in one direction, then reverse all cues to move him in a circle the other way.

When he’s fully alert, moving with energy, and focused on you, put him on a loose rein and go back to what you were doing. The loose rein is important not only because it rewards his response, but also because it dares him to make a mistake. Get out of the habit of babysitting your horse and trying to micromanage his every step. Put him on a loose rein and let him be responsible for his feet.

If he trips again, repeat the same steps. By doing so, you’re making the right thing easy and the wrong thing difficult. In other words, as long as he’s paying attention to where he’s placing his feet, you’re leaving him alone on a nice, long rein. But whenever he gets lazy and lets his mind wander, you’re waking him up and making him feel uncomfortable by hustling his feet.

Keep Him Interested

Another good strategy is to alleviate boredom (which can exacerbate stumbling) by keeping things interesting. Challenge your horse by incorporating more variety into your lessons and trail rides. Yes, consistency and repetition are keys to teaching your horse, but you also must be sure to add “variations on the theme” to help command your horse’s attention.

The key is “just the right amount.” If you include too much variety, your horse will never learn anything because he’ll never get to practice a lesson consistently enough to get good at it. But if you have too much consistency (you practice the same things in the same way and the same order every day), your horse will get bored and resentful.

Adding groundwork over obstacles is a great way to add interest to your horse’s regular routines; it also encourages him to watch more carefully how he steps (see “Groundwork Helps Make Nimble Feet,”).

Clinton Anderson, Stephenville, Texas, is a clinician, horse trainer, and competitor. Learn more about his clinics, appearances, and educational materials at his Web site, DownunderHorsemanship.com .

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Why Does My Horse Trip So Much

Horses are magnificent creatures that have been domesticated for centuries, serving as loyal companions and working animals. If you’ve ever experienced your horse tripping or stumbling, you may wonder what causes it and whether it’s a normal occurrence.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the reasons behind why horses trip, the signs to look for, and the potential dangers associated with this behavior. We will explore how to differentiate between tripping and stumbling, and the preventive measures to keep your equine companion safe and healthy. Whether you’re a seasoned equestrian or a novice horse owner, understanding the causes and implications of tripping is essential for the well-being of your horse and yourself. So, let’s explore the factors that can contribute to tripping and equip you with the knowledge to address and prevent this issue.

Key Takeaways:

What causes horses to trip.

Understanding the potential causes of horses tripping is essential for ensuring their well-being and performance. Various factors such as conformation, gait irregularities, and hoof issues can contribute to tripping incidents in horses.

Conformation plays a significant role in a horse’s stability and balance. Horses with uneven or imbalanced conformation may have a higher tendency to trip, especially if the limbs are not well-aligned.

Gait irregularities, such as excessive toeing in or out, can also affect a horse’s coordination, leading to tripping episodes, and impacting their overall movement efficiency.

Hoof-related problems, including uneven hoof growth, improper trimming, or shoeing, can disrupt a horse’s stride and increase the chances of tripping. Conditions like navicular disease or laminitis can also influence a horse’s gait, making them prone to stumbling.

Is Tripping Normal for Horses?

Tripping can occur in horses, but it should not be considered a normal or regular occurrence, as it often indicates underlying issues related to gait, conformation, or physical problems.

Tripping is often a sign that the horse may be experiencing discomfort or pain, which can stem from issues such as improper shoeing, muscle weakness, joint problems, or even neurological issues. It is crucial for horse owners and caretakers to observe and address tripping behavior promptly, as it can lead to further complications and potential injuries.

Proper veterinary evaluation and examination of the horse’s gait and movement can help identify and address the root cause of the tripping, ensuring the horse’s well-being and soundness.

What Are the Signs of a Tripping Horse?

Recognizing the signs of a tripping horse involves observing irregularities in its gait, frequent stumbling, and potential indicators of underlying physical problems that require attention.

Irregular gait patterns can include a hesitant or uncoordinated movement, often noticeable in the hind legs. Frequent stumbling may manifest as a jerky or hesitant motion while walking or trotting. Physical symptoms such as muscle stiffness, joint pain, or asymmetric muscle development could also signal an issue. It’s crucial to monitor these signs closely to safeguard the well-being of the horse and seek veterinary assessment when necessary.

How to Tell if Your Horse is Tripping or Stumbling?

Distinguishing between a tripping and a stumbling horse requires keen observation of its movements, gait patterns, and any associated signs of physical problems or discomfort.

It’s crucial to carefully observe the horse’s foot placement, balance, and coordination during movement. Look for any irregularities in the rhythm and smoothness of the gait. Pay close attention to any signs of pain or discomfort exhibited by the horse, such as flinching, head bobbing, or favoring certain limbs.

Assessing the environment and ground conditions can provide valuable insights. Surface irregularities, slippery terrain, or obstacles can contribute to stumbling, while tripping may be more indicative of a physical issue. A thorough understanding of equine physiology and behavior is essential in accurately interpreting these indicators.

What Are the Differences Between Tripping and Stumbling?

Understanding the distinctions between tripping and stumbling in horses involves evaluating the nature of the movements, the consistency of the behavior, and the potential underlying physical issues associated with each occurrence.

Tripping in horses generally refers to the act of catching the toe of the hoof on an obstacle or uneven ground, leading to a potential loss of balance. This behavior tends to be more intermittent and is often associated with momentary distractions or misjudgments in coordination.

On the other hand, stumbling typically involves a more pronounced and frequent loss of balance, often resulting from weakness, fatigue, or physical irregularities in the horse’s gait. The consistency of stumbling may indicate underlying muscular, skeletal, or neurological issues that require thorough examination by a veterinary professional. Differentiating between these behaviors is essential for accurately assessing and addressing the well-being of the horse.

What Are the Potential Dangers of Tripping?

Tripping in horses can pose significant dangers, including the risk of injuries to both the horse and the rider, potentially leading to long-term physical problems and performance limitations.

When a horse trips, it can result in various musculoskeletal injuries, such as strains, sprains, and even fractures. The rider’s balance and stability can be compromised, increasing the likelihood of falls and serious accidents. These incidents can lead to psychological trauma for both the horse and the rider, affecting their trust and confidence. Factors including poor hoof care, uneven terrain, improper shoeing, and fatigue can contribute to the risk of tripping. It’s essential for horse owners to remain vigilant and address any potential hazards to minimize the occurrence of tripping and its associated risks.

Can Tripping Cause Injuries to the Horse?

Tripping incidents can result in various injuries to the horse, including musculoskeletal issues, hoof damage, and potential complications that may require veterinary treatment and care.

Musculoskeletal issues such as strains, sprains, and even fractures can occur when a horse trips, posing significant challenges for rehabilitation and recovery. In addition, hoof damage is a common consequence, leading to issues like bruising, abscesses, and cracks. These injuries can be quite painful for the horse, affecting its overall gait and performance. Addressing these concerns often necessitates expert veterinary intervention to alleviate pain, promote healing, and prevent long-term complications. Implementing preventative measures such as regular farrier care, maintaining well-groomed footing in the horse’s environment, and training for improved balance can help reduce the risk of tripping incidents and their associated injuries.

Can Tripping Cause Injuries to the Rider?

Tripping episodes can also pose risks of injuries to the rider, including falls, impacts, and related physical traumas that may necessitate medical attention and care.

Riders facing tripping incidents must be acquainted with the potential hazards that such events entail. A fall from a horse, for instance, can result in serious injuries, ranging from fractures and sprains to head trauma. Impacts from hard surfaces or objects in the environment can lead to further complications. The susceptibility of riders to tripping incidents emphasizes the importance of safety measures and proper training to mitigate such risks.

How Can Tripping Be Prevented?

Preventing tripping in horses involves a comprehensive approach that includes proper hoof care, balanced shoeing, attentive saddle fitting, and structured training to address gait and balance issues.

Proper hoof care is crucial to prevent tripping in horses. Regular trimming and maintenance of the hooves help ensure proper balance and traction. Carefully selecting and fitting horseshoes that provide adequate support without obstructing natural movement is essential.

Regarding saddle fitting, it’s important to consider the horse’s conformation and muscle development to avoid any discomfort or restriction of movement. A well-fitted saddle promotes proper posture and movement, reducing the risk of tripping.

Incorporating specific training exercises into the horse’s routine can improve gait and balance, minimizing the likelihood of tripping. These can include exercises to strengthen core muscles, improve coordination, and enhance proprioception.

Regular Hoof Care and Trimming

Ensuring regular hoof care and trimming is a foundational step in preventing tripping in horses, as it helps maintain proper balance, alignment, and overall hoof health.

Farriers play a crucial role in assessing and addressing the specific needs of each horse’s hooves. By regularly trimming and balancing the hooves, farriers ensure that the weight distribution and hoof angles are optimized, reducing the risk of tripping and injuries. Proper hoof care helps prevent common issues such as cracks, abscesses, and infections, which can contribute to discomfort and gait irregularities. It is essential for horse owners to prioritize hoof care as a part of their regular maintenance routine to support the well-being and performance of their equine companions.

Properly Fitting Tack

Properly fitting tack, including saddles and related equipment, is crucial for preventing tripping in horses, as it ensures comfort, balance, and freedom of movement during activities.

A well-fitted saddle distributes the rider’s weight evenly, preventing pressure points that can lead to discomfort or injury in the horse. Proper balance of the saddle plays a vital role in preventing tripping incidents, as an ill-fitted saddle could shift and cause the horse to stumble. The right tack allows the horse to move freely, maintaining its natural gait and reducing the likelihood of tripping or stumbling during performance.

Correct Training and Exercise

Implementing correct training and exercise routines plays a vital role in preventing tripping in horses, as it helps improve gait , balance , and overall physical conditioning.

By focusing on gait improvement , horses can develop better coordination and control, reducing the risk of tripping. Similarly, training that targets balance enhancement can help horses maintain stability and avoid stumbling. Engaging in a well-rounded physical conditioning program can enhance muscle strength and endurance, further minimizing the likelihood of tripping incidents. Prioritizing these aspects through proper training and exercise enables horses to move with grace and stability, fostering overall safety and well-being.

Addressing Any Underlying Health Issues

Addressing any underlying health issues is essential for preventing tripping in horses, involving veterinary assessments, diagnostic tests, and appropriate treatment plans to mitigate potential contributors to tripping.

By conducting thorough veterinary assessments, equine professionals can identify any musculoskeletal, neurological, or hoof issues that could lead to tripping. Diagnostic procedures, including imaging techniques such as X-rays and MRI scans, provide valuable insights into the horse’s physical condition. These assessments and tests enable veterinarians to create tailored treatment plans encompassing medications, physiotherapy, corrective shoeing, or surgery if necessary, addressing the root causes of tripping and enhancing the horse’s overall well-being.

When Should You Seek Veterinary Help for a Tripping Horse?

Seeking veterinary help for a tripping horse is recommended when the underlying health issues, gait irregularities, or conformation problems contribute to persistent tripping incidents, requiring professional assessment and intervention.

Tripping in horses can be a sign of various physical and neurological conditions such as lameness, muscle weakness, joint problems, or even neurological disorders. Conformational faults like long toe, low heel, or improper shoeing may also lead to tripping. It’s essential for horse owners to recognize that persistent tripping can cause discomfort, decrease performance, and potentially lead to more serious injuries if left untreated.

What Are Some Common Health Issues That Can Contribute to Tripping?

Several common health issues can contribute to tripping in horses, including gait irregularities , musculoskeletal problems , and conformational issues that impact the horse’s stability and movement.

Gait irregularities, such as stumbling or forging, can result from improper shoeing, lameness, or neurological disorders. Musculoskeletal problems like weakness, joint stiffness, or improper muscle coordination may also lead to tripping incidents. Conformational challenges, such as a long back, upright pasterns, or uneven hoof angles, could affect the horse’s balance and predispose it to stumbling.

Understanding these factors can help horse owners and caretakers identify and address potential issues to promote better equine health and reduce the risk of tripping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my horse trip so much.

There could be several reasons why your horse trips frequently. It could be due to improper hoof care, muscle weakness, poor footing, or a physical issue. It’s best to consult with a veterinarian to determine the root cause of the tripping.

How can I prevent my horse from tripping?

Regular hoof care and proper shoeing can help prevent tripping in horses. It’s also important to keep your horse’s muscles strong through regular exercise and to avoid riding on uneven or slippery surfaces.

Could my horse’s tripping be due to a physical issue?

Yes, tripping can be a symptom of a physical issue such as neurological problems, arthritis, or muscle weakness. If your horse is tripping frequently, it’s best to have them checked by a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues.

Is there a specific age or breed that is more prone to tripping?

There is no specific age or breed that is more prone to tripping. However, older horses and horses with certain conformational issues may be more likely to trip. Additionally, horses with long toes and low heels may be more prone to tripping.

Can improper riding or handling cause my horse to trip?

Yes, improper riding or handling can contribute to a horse’s tripping. It’s important to have proper balance and control while riding and to avoid pulling or jerking on the reins, which can cause the horse to trip.

What should I do if my horse trips while I’m riding?

If your horse trips while you’re riding, try to maintain your balance and stay calm. It’s important not to pull on the reins, as this can cause your horse to trip again. Take a break and assess your horse’s footing and physical condition before continuing your ride. If the tripping continues, it’s best to consult with a veterinarian.

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Tripping Horses

Horse problems database - front end - tripping horses, causes of horses tripping and stumbling.

Every horse trips occassionally. But if your horse trips numerous times on every ride, you have a tripping horse problem.

Horses are not naturally "clumsy". If they tripped a bunch in the wild, they would be targeted by predators and not be around too long. So even if your horse has tripped since she was a baby, it is still not "normal".

The following lists typical causes of tripping and stumbling:

Horses that trip only on certain terrain

Rocky or gravel surfaces

Some horses trip only on certain surfaces. Horses that are "ouchy" and/or trip on graveled or rocky paths may simply have sensitive feet. There are many boots, pads, and shoes designed for this type of horse challenge.

Asphalt or grass

Some tripping horses only trip on asphalt or grass surfaces. These surfaces are definitely more slippery and a lot of tripping can be credited to that.  Asphalt is also a harder surface.  Joint issues tend to show up on harder surfaces.

Sandy terrain, or even deep footing in arenas, can result in tripping or stumbling, especially if your horse isn't in full condition or isn't used to moving in this type of terrain.  Hock issues often show up in sandy terrain.

Uphill terrain

Others trip only going uphill. This seemingly strange condition can be caused by caudal heel pain syndrome (formerly called navicular syndrome) or flexor tendon pain.

Downhill terrain

Horses that trip or stumble only going downhill typically have either stifle problems or lumbar (lower back) issues.  If your horse has labored breathing downhill only, consider sternum misalignment.

Horses that trip or stumble "all the time"

Cause of "all the time" tripping:   in the horse's hoof.

Hoof angles being either too steep or too shallow Incorrect angles, even if they are identical angles on both feet, can cause horse tripping.

Right and left hooves at different angles Having front hooves at different angles is like you wearing two different shoes. It won't be long until you start tripping.

Toes too long Often the angles are incorrect if the toes are too long, but not always. Toes too long even with correct angles can cause tripping or stumbling.

Medial to lateral (inside to outside) hoof wall imbalance This means, for example, that the inside wall of the hoof is higher than the outside wall. (or vice versa) This not only causes tripping, but is an incredible strain on tendons and joints up the entire leg.

Chronic infections such as white line disease or thrush Infections can make the feet tender or sore. Horses tend to trip more often when their feet hurt.

Hoof Abscess brewing This should result in short term tripping on the abscessed foot only.

Previous bout with laminitis (founder) resulting in rotation of coffin bone If the coffin bone has rotated, the hoof is effectively at a different angle than it should be. It's "effectively" because the hoof may look normal on the outside. But on the inside the coffin bone is rotated down. This will cause the horse to trip, especially as the toes get longer. Be sure your farrier sees an x-ray of your horse's hoof and is trimming to the internal bone angle, rather than the external hoof angle.

Cause of "all the time" tripping:     Not in the hoof

If you have eliminated the hoof as the cause of your horse's tripping or stumbling, there are additional possibilities.

• Poor fitting saddle (see also Does My Horse's Saddle Fit? )
• Flexor tendons feeling strain and not functioning well. Tendons can be strained on a long-term basis if the hoof angles are incorrect. This may or may not result in a "pulled" tendon.
• Leg joint arthritis. If a horse cannot flex or extend any joint all the way, tripping may result.
• Any joint in the leg being out of chiropractic alignment. There are many areas of the leg (and leg attachment areas) that can be chiropractically affected. These are: the withers, shoulder, shoulder blade, elbow, knee, accessory carpal bone, fetlock, splint bones, sesamoid bones, fetlock, pastern, and coffin bone. Even the sternum (or breastbone) being off center can cause a horse to trip.

What can you do about tripping and stumbling?

If your horse trips or stumbles "all the time", I would first investigate to find out if it's ONLY when he or she is being ridden.

If your horse trips only when ridden , I would definitely check your saddle fit. If you have a saddle causing only one very small pressure point, it causes the back muscles pain. Then your horse's back becomes "hollowed-out", which stops proper movement of the back, and in turn...the legs. Check out Does My Horse's Saddle Fit? for saddle fitting information.

If your horse trips even when  not being ridden , then the problem is either in the feet, tendons, or joints.

• For ruling out feet issues, consult with your farrier and veterinarian. Radiographs (x-rays) may be valuable for locating any arthritis in the hoof or coffin bone rotation.
• For ruling out tendons, again you'll need to consult with your veterinarian. Your vet can feel the tendons for swelling, scar tissue and adhesions. In addition, tendon ultrasound will let you see every aspect of the tendons and know for sure if there are any problems.
• For ruling out joint issues, you can consult with your veterinarian too. Veterinarians will flex the joints through all their normal ranges of motion and will be able to detect any arthritis that way, or via radiographs (x-rays). OR you can check them yourself (see below)

If you'd like to save a little money, do your own "Body Checkups" on your horse's leg joints. The Body Checkups for every joint in the body are all detailed with step-by-step directions (including beautiful color photos and illustrations) in my book Where Does My Horse Hurt? There are also Body Checkups videos  on this site that you can try on your horse.

You can check your horse's leg joints for normal ranges of motion and arthritis too! And for a lot less money. The "Body Checkups" tell you exactly what is normal and what is not...and what to do next to help your horse.

Good luck solving your tripping horse problem!

Want to Align and Heal Horses? You Can!

Discover the answers to... why your horse has a favorite direction what story your horse's tracks tell whether your horse's muscles are too "hard" ...and much more.

Kentucky Derby post positions announced for horses in the 2024 field

P ost positions were drawn Saturday for the 2024 Kentucky Derby . Officials at Churchill Downs in Louisville held the evening drawing a week ahead of the 150th running of the first leg of horse racing's Triple Crown scheduled for next Saturday.

The post positions correlate with the stalls in the starting gate for the race, with the No. 1 post the closest to the rail on the inside of the track.

After the drawing, Fierceness, which drew the No. 17 post, was listed as the morning line favorite with 5-2 odds.

Here's the list of the 2024 Kentucky Derby horses by post position with their odds:

• Dornoch (20-1)
• Sierra Leone (3-1)
• Mystik Dan (20-1)
• Catching Freedom (8-1)
• Catalytic (30-1)
• Just Steel (20-1)
• Honor Marie (20-1)
• Just a Touch (10-1)
• Encino (20-1)
• T O Password (30-1)
• Forever Young (10-1)
• Track Phantom (20-1)
• West Saratoga (50-1)
• Endlessly (30-1)
• Domestic Product (30-1)
• Grand Mo the First (50-1)
• Fierceness (5-2)
• Stronghold (20-1)
• Resilience (20-1)
• Society Man (50-1)

The field for the 1 1/4-mile race is limited to 20 3-year-olds. If a horse scratches from the race before Friday at 9 a.m. EDT, then Epic Ride and Mugatu respectively are eligible to be added to the field.

Most of the horses got to the Derby by earning points in the Road to the Kentucky Derby, a series of races that started in September with the Iroquois Stakes, and concluded at the Lexington Stakes on April 13. Points were given to the top five finishers in each of the 36 races.

Separately, T O Password was invited to the Derby after winning last month's Fukuryu Stakes in Japan and being awarded enough points to top the four-race Japan Road to the Kentucky Derby.

Earlier this year, Churchill Downs announced the purse for the 2024 Derby would be an all-time high of $5 million, up from the $3 million in prize money that had been up for grabs since 2019.

The $5 million will be split among the top five finishers in the Derby, with $3.1 million for the winner, $1 million for the runner-up, $500,000 for third place, $250,000 for fourth place and $150,000 for fifth place.

Known as the Run for the Roses, the Derby is traditionally held on the first Saturday in May, marking the start of the Triple Crown. Two weeks after the Derby, the Preakness Stakes in Baltimore marks the midpoint of the series. In June, the Belmont Stakes will close out the series in Saratoga Springs, New York, instead of the race's home on Long Island because of construction of a new Belmont Park.

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Gandikap - all you need to know before you go (2024).

Pope visits Venice to speak to the artists and inmates behind the Biennale's must-see prison show

VENICE, Italy — Venice has always been a place of contrasts, of breathtaking beauty and devastating fragility, where history, religion, art and nature have collided over the centuries to produce an otherworldly gem of a city. But even for a place that prides itself on its culture of unusual encounters, Pope Francis’ visit Sunday stood out.

Francis traveled to the lagoon city to visit the Holy See’s pavilion at the Biennale contemporary art show and meet with the people who created it. But because the Vatican decided to mount its exhibit in Venice’s women’s prison, and invited inmates to collaborate with the artists , the whole project assumed a far more complex meaning, touching on Francis’ belief in the power of art to uplift and unite, and of the need to give hope and solidarity to society’s most marginalized.

Francis hit on both messages during his visit, which began in the courtyard of the Giudecca prison where he met with the women inmates one by one. As some of them wept, Francis urged them to use their time in prison as a chance for “moral and material rebirth.”

“Paradoxically, a stay in prison can mark the beginning of something new, through the rediscovery of the unsuspected beauty in us and in others, as symbolized by the artistic event you are hosting and the project to which you actively contribute,” Francis said.

Francis then met with Biennale artists in the prison chapel, decorated with an installation by Brazilian visual artist Sonia Gomes of objects dangling from the ceiling, meant to draw the viewer’s gaze upward. He urged the artists to embrace the Biennale’s theme this year “Strangers Everywhere,” to show solidarity with all those on the margins.

The Vatican exhibit has turned the Giudecca prison, a former convent for reformed prostitutes, into one of the must-see attractions of this year’s Biennale, even though to see it visitors must reserve in advance and go through a security check. It has become an unusual art world darling that greets visitors at the entrance with Maurizio Cattelan’s wall mural of two giant filthy feet , a work that recalls Caravaggio’s dirty feet or the feet that Francis washes each year in a Holy Thursday ritual that he routinely performs on prisoners.

The exhibit also includes a short film starring the inmates and Zoe Saldana, and prints in the prison coffee shop by onetime Catholic nun and American social activist Corita Kent.

Francis’ dizzying morning visit, which ended with Mass in St. Mark’s Square, represented an increasingly rare outing for the 87-year-old pontiff, who has been hobbled by health and mobility problems that have ruled out any foreign trips so far this year.

And Venice, with its 121 islands and 436 bridges, isn’t an easy place to negotiate. But Francis pulled it off, arriving by helicopter from Rome, crossing the Giudecca Canal in a water taxi and then arriving in St. Mark’s Square in a mini popemobile that traversed the Grand Canal via a pontoon bridge erected for the occasion.

During an encounter with young people at the iconic Santa Maria della Salute basilica, Francis acknowledged the miracle that is Venice, admiring its “enchanting beaty” and tradition as a place of East-West encounter, but warning that it is increasingly vulnerable to climate change and depopulation.

“Venice is at one with the waters upon which it sits,” Francis said. “Without the care and safeguarding of this natural environment, it might even cease to exist.”

Venice, sinking under rising sea levels and weighed down by the impact of overtourism, is in the opening days of an experiment to try to limit the sort of day trips that Francis undertook Sunday.

Venetian authorities last week launched a pilot program to charge day-trippers 5 euros ($5.35) apiece on peak travel days. The aim is to encourage them to stay longer or come at off-peak times, to cut down on crowds and make the city more livable for its dwindling number of residents.

For Venice’s Catholic patriarch, Archbishop Francesco Moraglia, the new tax program is a worthwhile experiment, a potential necessary evil to try to preserve Venice as a livable city for visitors and residents alike.

Moraglia said Francis’ visit — the first by a pope to the Biennale — was a welcome boost, especially for the women of the Giudecca prison who participated in the exhibit as tour guides and as protagonists in some of the artworks.

He acknowledged that Venice over the centuries has had a long, complicated, love-hate relationship with the papacy, despite its central importance to Christianity.

The relics of St. Mark — the top aide to St. Peter, the first pope — are held here in the basilica, which is one of the most important and spectacular in all of Christendom. Several popes have hailed from Venice — in the past century alone three pontiffs were elected after being Venice patriarchs. And Venice hosted the last conclave held outside the Vatican: the 1799-1800 vote that elected Pope Paul VII.

But for centuries before that, relations between the independent Venetian Republic and the Papal States were anything but cordial as the two sides dueled over control of the church. Popes in Rome issued interdicts against Venice that essentially excommunicated the entire territory. Venice flexed its muscles back by expelling entire religious orders, including Francis’ own Jesuits.

“It’s a history of contrasts because they were two competitors for so many centuries,” said Giovanni Maria Vian, a church historian and retired editor of the Vatican newspaper L’Osservatore Romano whose family hails from Venice. “The papacy wanted to control everything, and Venice jealously guarded its independence.”

Moraglia said that troubled history is long past and that Venice was welcoming Francis with open arms and gratitude, in keeping with its history as a bridge between cultures.

“The history of Venice, the DNA of Venice — beyond the language of beauty and culture that unifies — there’s this historic character that says that Venice has always been a place of encounter,” he said.

Francis said as much as he closed out Mass in St. Mark’s before an estimated 10,500 people.

“Venice, which has always been a place of encounter and cultural exchange, is called to be a sign of beauty available to all,” Francis said. “Starting with the least, a sign of fraternity and care for our common home.”

Winfield reported from Rome. Associated Press writer Colleen Barry contributed.

OU softball sweeps UCF as Sooners blast five HRs in final Big 12 road game

The final Big 12 road trip for OU softball ended in familiar fashion — with the Sooners celebrating a sweep.

The second-ranked Sooners hit five home runs Sunday in an 11-7 win against UCF for a three-game sweep in Orlando, Fla.

OU (45-4, 21-3 Big 12) wrap up regular-season play next weekend with Bedlam in Norman.

Ella Parker hit two home runs for OU, while Tiare Jennings, Kasidi Pickering and Kinzie Hansen each had one homer.

More: OU softball edges UCF as Sooners coach Patty Gasso earns her 1,500 NCAA win

OU softball live score updates vs. UCF 

More: Meet OU baseball's 'Zen master': How transfer Michael Snyder's leadership lifted Sooners

OU softball highlights vs. UCF 

More: OU softball rolls past UCF in series opener as Kinzie Hansen, Kelly Maxwell lead the way

Top 5: OU 11, UCF 5 | Sooners blast three HRs to break game open

Ella Parker and Tiare Jennings each hit a solo homer, and Kinzie Hansen capped the scoring with a two-run blast to make it 11-5.

Bottom 4: OU 7, UCF 5

Jasmine Williams doubles home Sierra Humphreys to get the run back from the top of the fourth.

Top 4: OU 7, UCF 4 | Kasidi Pickering homers to add to lead

Kasidi Pickering hits a solo homer to right, adding to her great freshman campaign.

Top 3: OU 6, UCF 4 | Jayda Coleman's RBI squeeze sets tone for Sooners' rally

Jayda Coleman's RBI squeeze play started a four-run rally for OU in the third inning. Alyssa Brito added a two-run single and Rylie Boone had an RBI single to make it 6-4 OU.

Bottom 2: UCF 4, OU 2 | Sooners fall behind again

For the second straight inning, the Knights have hit a two-run homer off Nicole May. This time it was Sona Halajian.

Top 2: OU 2, UCF 2 | Ella Parker ties it up with a two-run homer

Welp. It didn't take long for the Sooners to wipe out a 2-0 deficit.

Ella Parker answered with a two-out, two-run homer of her own to put OU on the board.

Bottom 1: UCF 2, OU 0 | Knights homer off Nicole May to take early lead

Chloe Evans' two-out, two-run home run off OU pitcher Nicole May gives UCF an early 2-0 lead.

What time does OU softball vs. UCF start?

• Date:  Sunday, April 28
• Time:  10 a.m. CT
• Where:  Orlando, Fla.

More: Big 12 softball power rankings: Did OU do enough to pass Texas for top spot?

What channel is OU softball vs. UCF on today?

• Streaming:  ESPN+
• How to watch online:  Watch ESPN ( here's how to stream it live )

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NFL Power Rankings: Rating each team's Super Bowl 59 odds after the 2024 NFL Draft

The 2024 NFL Draft is officially behind us. Although there is still four months before the start of the NFL season, fans have already begun looking ahead, trying to figure out which teams, if anyone, did enough to get over the hump and steal the Lombardi Trophy from Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs ' clutches.

These rookies will not get an opportunity to prove capable of thrusting their squads into Super Bowl contention for quite some time. Still, many experts and analysts are detailing which teams had the best drafts just 24 hours after every pick has been made, and in turn, explaining which teams should get a boost in the upcoming season.

Here is where every team ranks based on their Super Bowl 59 odds after the draft. All odds via DraftKings .

NFL draft grades: Bears, Steelers lead best team classes as Cowboys stumble

Super Bowl 59 odds:

The favorites:.

• Kansas City Chiefs (+550)
• San Francisco 49ers (+600)
• Baltimore Ravens (+900)
• Detroit Lions (+1200)
• Buffalo Bills (+1200)
• Cincinnati Bengals (+1300)

NFL DRAFT HUB: Latest NFL Draft mock drafts, news, live picks, grades and analysis.

Everyone knows that the path to the Super Bowl in the AFC runs through Patrick Mahomes. Well, looking at these odds, if you're looking for some bang for your buck, why not bet on the only guy who has actually beaten Mahomes in the playoffs?

Many people may be underselling the Cincinnati Bengals because of their lackluster season last year. Despite Joe Burrow being hurt for nearly half the season and Tee Higgins having the worst year of his young career, the team still finished above .500 and just one game out of the playoffs.

The offensive line was obviously the biggest area of concern for this team, so they used their first-round pick to bring in Amarius Mims. The defensive line was a problem, so they brought in Kris Jenkins with their second-round pick. This team very quietly addressed several of their issues and should be mostly healthy by the start of the regular season. Sure, they're in a crowded division, but they're the only team in the AFC North proven capable of reaching the Super Bowl.

The Contenders:

• Houston Texans (+1600)
• Philadelphia Eagles (+1700)
• Dallas Cowboys (+1700)
• Green Bay Packers (+1900)
• New York Jets (+2000)
• Miami Dolphins (+2200)
• Atlanta Falcons (+2200)
• Los Angeles Chargers (+3000)
• Chicago Bears (+3000)
• Los Angeles Rams (+3500)

This tier almost entirely consists of teams that could boom or bust based on how certain dominoes fall. The Jets could be great, so long as Aaron Rodgers is healthy. The Dolphins are explosive, so long as Tua Tagovailoa stays healthy. The Chicago Bears have a loaded offense, if Caleb Williams adjusts to the NFL as experts anticipate.

Another team that stands out is the Atlanta Falcons. Yes, they had a horrendous draft by most metrics and did not address their most pressing concerns in the first round. Despite all that though, you can't deny that they improved this offseason. They upgraded at quarterback, found a head coach that doesn't feel the need to prove he's smarter than everyone else (hopefully), and added some depth weapons like Darnell Mooney and Rondale Moore to their team.

Are they as talented as teams like the San Francisco 49ers or Dallas Cowboys? Not even close, but they are in one of the worst divisions in football. Once the playoffs roll around, anything can happen.

The Dark Horses:

• Cleveland Browns (+4000)
• Jacksonville Jaguars (+4500)
• Pittsburgh Steelers (+5000)
• Indianapolis Colts (+6000)
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers (+7500)
• Seattle Seahawks (+7500)
• New Orleans Saints (+8000)
• Minnesota Vikings (+8000)

The team that stands out most on this list is undoubtedly the Indianapolis Colts. Keep in mind, Anthony Richardson was a frontrunner for Offensive Rookie of the Year before his injury. Now, he returns with Adonai Mitchell as a weapon? That could be dangerous.

Yes, there are concerns about Mitchell's character, but even if Mitchell winds up being a non-factor (which seems unlikely), this is still a team that finished one game out of the playoffs despite having Gardner Minshew start for 13 games. Oh, and the team didn't even spend a first-round pick on Mitchell. They also added Laiatu Latu to solidify their defensive line.

The longshots:

• Washington Commanders (+10000)
• Arizona Cardinals (+10000)
• New York Giants (+10000)
• Las Vegas Raiders (+10000)
• Denver Broncos (+12000)
• Tennessee Titans (+15000)
• New England Patriots (+15000)
• Carolina Panthers (+25000)

Call me crazy. Call me nuts, or call me a prophet. I don't care which, but of every team with +10000 odds or higher, the Carolina Panthers may be the team to bet on. Should you bet on any of these teams to win the Super Bowl? Absolutely not. That's (probably) as good as throwing your money away. However, the Panthers play in the worst division in football, added some decent receivers to their locker room with Diontae Johnson and Xavier Legette, added a running back via the draft in Jonathan Brooks, and still have a former No. 1 overall pick at quarterback.

Obviously, any hope the Panthers would have of reaching the playoffs and eventually the Super Bowl hinges on massive development from quarterback Bryce Young. If he can develop though, perhaps this team could make some noise in the NFC South. Their passing defense was actually quite solid last year. They didn't have much luck in the turnover department, but that should balance itself out moving forward. Their biggest problem was against the run, where despite surrendering just 4.1 yards per carry, they allowed 25 rushing touchdowns on the season (most in the NFL). Despite losing star pass rusher Brian Burns, the team still has A'Shawn Robinson, Shaq Thompson, Derrick Brown, and newly acquired Jadeveon Clowney to shore up that defensive line. There are certainly a lot of problems, but there is potential for this team to exceed expectations. Does that mean they'll win the Super Bowl though? Probably not.

When does the 2024-25 NFL season start?

The 2024-25 NFL preseason begins the week of August 9, with the regular season kicking off with Thursday Night Football on September 5, 2024. The opponents in that matchup have yet to be determined.

NFL draft winners, losers: Bears puzzle with punter pick on Day 3

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