The equine hock, also called the tarsus, is one of the most important structures in the horse’s hind limb. It plays a central role in movement, athletic performance, balance, and soundness. Because of this, the hock is also one of the most common locations for arthritis, strain, and performance-related lameness. Understanding how the hock works can help horse owners better recognize early signs of discomfort.

The equine carpus is one of the most important joints in the horse’s body. Every time a horse gallops, lands from a jump, turns sharply, or even walks across uneven ground, the carpus helps absorb force and stabilize the limb. Because of the tremendous stresses placed on it, the carpus is also one of the most commonly injured joints in athletic horses. Understanding how this joint works can help horse owners better recognize problems early.

The poll is a small area with a surprisingly large influence on how a horse feels and moves. Positioned just behind the ears, it marks the point where the head meets the neck. While it may appear simple from the outside, the poll is a highly specialized region where several important structures come together.

Some horses mature quickly, others take more time, and most fall somewhere in between. Learn how to assess your horse's physical and mental preparedness for work.

The pastern joint is one of those structures that rarely gets attention until something goes wrong. Yet it plays an essential role in how a horse moves, carries weight, and stays sound. Understanding this joint gives you a clearer picture of how the limb functions as a whole, and why small changes in conformation or workload can have significant consequences.

Horse muscle anatomy is the study of the major muscle groups that help a horse move, support posture, stay balanced, and generate power. For horse owners and students, understanding horse muscles can make it easier to evaluate topline, conditioning, movement, and changes in the body over time. This guide explains the main muscle regions of the horse, what they do, and why they matter in practical everyday terms. Horse muscle anatomy at a glance Neck supports balance and head

Learn all the anatomical parts involved in the equine fetlock joint

A deep dive into the equine hip joint covering osteology, articular structures, ligaments and biomechanics

Learn the anatomy of the equine mouth, and how bits interact with it.

Learn the biomechanical principles that govern hoof landing, impact forces, and breakover mechanics.

This quick and easy calculator can help farriers estimate the cost of shoeing and trimming horses.

Learn about the gait deviation called paddling or winging out - what causes it, and whether it's considered an issue for the horse.

Learn the causes, consequences, and management strategies for interfering: a common equine gait fault.

Understand what causes gait faults in horses, how to recognize them, and how training, riding, and hoof care management can influence them.

Learn what causes high-low syndrome, or uneven feet, in horses.

Learn the cause, treatment and prevention of quarter cracks

This article dives deeper into the equine nervous system. Learn how this system influences movement, emotion, coordination, and neurological disorders.

Learn about club feet: what causes them and how they are classified.

Learn the basics of the equine nervous system: how it affects behavior, health, learning, and the horse's perception of the world

Saddle fitting is a crucial, yet often overlooked, aspect of equestrianism that directly affects the comfort and performance of both...