Equine myopathy is one of the leading reasons horses become unable to stand. Often underestimated, it can progress rapidly from mild muscle stiffness to complete recumbency. Here's what every horse owner and veterinary professional should know.
What is equine myopathy?
Equine myopathy refers to diseases or injuries affecting skeletal muscle. Although any muscle group may be involved, the hindquarters, back and shoulders are most commonly affected. Severity ranges from mild stiffness to extensive muscle damage that leaves the horse unable to stand.
The two main categories are:
- Exertional myopathy (EMRD): develops during intense exercise, particularly in poorly conditioned horses or after work beyond their level of fitness.
- Non-exertional myopathy: includes recumbency-associated myopathy, post-anaesthetic myopathy and inherited conditions such as PSSM (Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy).
Recognising the symptoms
Mild to moderate cases
- Muscle stiffness and a shortened or rigid gait.
- Reluctance to move or exercise.
- Excessive sweating without obvious exertion.
- Pain when the muscles are palpated.
- Dark-coloured urine (myoglobinuria), an important warning sign.
Severe cases
- Inability to stand or remain standing.
- Severe muscle tremors.
- Respiratory distress caused by weakness of the respiratory muscles.
- Severe pain and signs of secondary colic.
When myopathy leads to prolonged recumbency
In severe cases, the horse no longer has the muscular strength needed to stand. Each unsuccessful attempt further exhausts the remaining muscle function. Prolonged recumbency then creates additional muscle compression, causing new pressure injuries and further reducing the chances of recovery.
This vicious cycle lies at the heart of the most severe cases of equine myopathy. Every additional hour spent recumbent reduces the likelihood of a full recovery.
The vicious cycle of recumbency-associated myopathy
- Horse remains recumbent → muscles are compressed by body weight.
- Compression → reduced blood supply (ischaemia).
- Ischaemia → progressive muscle necrosis.
- Muscle necrosis → inability to stand.
- Continued recumbency → further deterioration.
Emergency treatment
Severe equine myopathy requires immediate veterinary intervention:
- NSAIDs: to reduce muscle inflammation.
- Intravenous fluid therapy: to improve circulation and protect the kidneys from myoglobin toxicity.
- Pain relief: to reduce discomfort and minimise stress.
- Electrolyte therapy: to correct electrolyte imbalances.
- Regular repositioning: turning the horse every two to four hours helps reduce pressure-related muscle damage.
The role of Equi-lift
For horses unable to stand because of severe myopathy, a pneumatic lifting system such as Equi-lift provides the safest lifting solution. The inflatable cushion raises the horse gradually without placing additional strain on already damaged muscles.
For horses with recurring conditions such as PSSM or EPSM, Equi-lift Model H provides owners with a practical solution for safely assisting the horse while awaiting veterinary treatment.
Prevention
- Balanced nutrition: horses with PSSM benefit from lower starch levels and increased dietary fat.
- Progressive conditioning: always build fitness gradually before intense exercise.
- Routine monitoring: blood tests (CK and AST) after suspected muscle injury.
- Adequate hydration and electrolyte intake, particularly during hot weather or strenuous work.
- Proper warm-up and cool-down before and after exercise.
Conclusion
Equine myopathy is a true veterinary emergency. Early recognition, prompt veterinary care and appropriate lifting equipment can make the difference between a full recovery and permanent injury. To find the most suitable Equi-lift solution for your needs, contact our team.
