Composition:
Horses with long backs are inclined increased to problems.

Transportation: 
Long transportation times, accidents, poor shock absorption in the trailer and unsympathetic driving can cause damage.

Birthing difficulties: Difficult births where the foal is forcibly extracted can cause problems in both the mare and the foal.

Lack of movement: 
Lack of space in which to move does not give the horse enough opportunity to ease tension by bucking or rolling.

Performance: 
Every event strains the spine in a different, specific way.

Rider: 
Problems with the rider’s seat (e.g. a crooked seat) can lead to back problems in the horse.

Saddle: 
Poorly fitting saddles are one of the most frequent causes of back problems.

Age: 
As age increases the effects of previous small and/or large traumas to the spine become more apparent.

Shoes: 
Poor hoof care and incorrect shoeing interfere with the horse’s movement resulting in subluxations of the spine.