Outcome measures and their importance for effective equine back pain rehabilitation

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Abstract

Effective rehabilitation for equine back pain is required due to the frequency of dysfunction effecting performance and welfare. Reliable and valid measures should be used establish a baseline in pain and dysfunction levels, and used to monitor change during rehabilitation, as well as support future research assessing the efficacy of treatment interventions. Such measures are collectively known as outcome measures and can include specific objective markers of impairments such as reduced range of motion, or pain on palpation. The aim of this narrative review is to discuss the options and tools available to use as outcome measures in relation to the treatment and rehabilitation of back pain in the horse. In this paper outcome measures critically discussed relate to conformation and standing posture, muscle dimensions, palpation, range of motion, objective gait analysis, functional analysis, owner reported outcome measures and pain scales. Recommendations are made to assist with selection of a suitable outcome measure. In conclusion, complex laboratory-based analysis systems are available to be gold-standard truly objective systems, although realism for clinical practitioners working in the field limits their use. There is a requirement for new outcome measures that are not subject to observer bias nor time or financially consuming, however it is possible to use those available currently with assist in clinical decision making for the benefit of the horse.
Original languageEnglish
JournalJournal of Equine Rehabilitation
Publication statusAccepted/In press - 7 Oct 2024

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