Horses
	The horse is naturally an elite athlete and is able to run faster and longer than any of the other domesticated species. Horses seem to be naturally amenable to working with humans. Amongst other qualities they lend us their speed and an inquisitive nature which allow us to enjoy the beauty and excitement of a large variety of competitive and recreational equine sports.
Back pain in the horse may present itself in gait or performance changes or through behavioural changes. Indications include: Asymmetry (such as a stiffer rein or disuniting in canter). Unlevelness. Sore areas along the spine (being cold backed). Unexplained change in behaviour (bucking, rearing or refusing fences or being uncooperative to handle). Lameness after a fall or accident, where other causes have been eliminated. Assymetrical muscle development or atrophy. Unexplained deterioration in performance (Not making the usual height/shape over fences, difficulty in lengthening strides, difficulty bending or flexing). Dogs, cats etc.
	Dogs and cats with an active lifestyle, or who participate in sports or are worked, are more prone to injury and are therefore more prone to muscle spasm and back pain. Additionally, certain breeds of dog, particularly conformationally long backed, short legged breeds are more prone to back pain than others. However, any dog or cat can suffer back pain at any age. Unlike the equine, the spine of the cat and dog is fairly flexible, allowing quite a range of movement so that the animal is able to curl up whilst resting as well as allowing for normal bending and stretching movement. However, sometimes through such things as a fall, slip, or road traffic accident the vertebral joints can suddenly be taken to the extreme range of its movement or be put through extreme concussion. This could also be caused by repetitive trauma such as always landing on the same leg when jumping, or through repeated twisting movements such as chasing for balls or in taking part in agility.
Indications include: Crying out when getting up. Difficulty climbing stairs or getting into cars. Signs of discomfort when being stroked on their backs. A reluctance to exercise. Stiffness or pain after exercise. Unlevelness, especially behind. Uneven claw wear. Unexplained deterioration in usual performance. Uncharacteristic changes in behaviour or temperament. Common causes Common problems and causes which may often lead to a need for a manipulative treatment include: Dogs/Cats Conformation defects in dogs. Ball chasing. Playing rough and tumble games. Pulling on the lead. Horses Poorly fitting tack (tight rollers, ill-fitting saddles or harnesses, tight brow bands). Sore mouths will cause the horse to work with the head raised and twisted or hollow its back to get away from the pain. Getting cast. Falling off the side of a ramp while being loaded into a horsebox or trailer. Common causes in all animals Trauma, such as such as an accident, fall, bump or collision. Excess weight. Repetitive training or demanding competitions/workloads. Pregnancy and delivery.

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