09/06/2026
Caudal pelvic tilts ⚖️
A simple exercise I often leave owners with to continue between physiotherapy sessions.
Benefits can include:
• Improving mobility through the lumbosacral region
• Engagement of the abdominal muscles
• Encouraging lift through the thoracolumbar region
• Improving activation, coordination and endurance of the muscles involved in pelvic stability
Online I have seen the use of hoof picks or other pointed objects to trigger this reflex. Whilst this can elicit a quick and exaggerated pelvic tilt, it’s not exactly the response we’re aiming for. The goal is a slow, controlled rotation of the pelvis that the horse can comfortably hold. Ideally, I’d like to see the position maintained for up to 10–15 seconds, although many horses need to build up to this. Starting with 3–5 seconds is absolutely fine.
Some horses find this movement more difficult than others, which may reflect factors such as stiffness, weakness, discomfort or reduced body awareness.
To perform the exercise, I usually recommend gently scratching either side of the tail (just below the top of the dock). For most horses, your fingers alone are more than enough to encourage the movement reflex.
Remember, we’re not looking for the biggest reaction possible. A small, controlled pelvic tuck held for a few seconds is far more beneficial than a dramatic response that’s over in an instant.
*Don’t mind my terrible recording, next time I will try to get myself in the frame 🙈
