Episode 83: Rope Walking (Listener Request)

Rope Walking and What It Reveals About Your Horse’s Body

Rope Walking in horses (walking as if on a tightrope) is more than just an unusual gait, it’s a clue that something deeper is going on within the body. We break down why alignment should be balanced rather than narrow, and why this change in movement and loading can indicate instability, compensation, or pain. 

We draw on real clinical cases and practical experience and guide you through the most common causes, how to assess your horse, and simple strategies to begin improving movement, stability, and comfort.

In this episode, we unpack

• What ropewalking vs correct limb alignment should look like during movement and standing
• Common causes in the forelimbs, including pectoral injury, shoulder instability, saddle or girth discomfort, and neurological issues
• Common contributors in the hindlimbs, including groin tension, abdominal weakness, pelvic dysfunction, and lumbar discomfort
• Why downhill surfaces can highlight instability and make rope walking more obvious
• When to consider neurological involvement and seek veterinary assessment
• Practical ways to assess your horse, and rehabilitation strategies that gently recalibrate the system

This is an important conversation for horse owners because rope walking is not a training issue and therefore training is not a primary solution - rather a structural and postural one! 

To learn more about Dr Raquel Butler visit:

Facebook: Integrated Veterinary Therapeutics
Website: https://www.integratedvettherapeutics.com 

To learn more about Sophie Vandenberg:

Facebook: Equine Posturelate – Sophie Vandenberg

Have any questions or topics you’d love us to cover?

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