Recognizing Back Pain and Dysfunction in Dogs with Dr. David Lane

Acupuncture for Back Pain in Horses: What Does the Evidence Show? Could electroacupuncture or laser acupuncture help horses with back pain, and how do we distinguish improvement over time from a treatment effect? In this episode of Veterinary Compendium’s All Creatures, All Questions - Science Bites episode, Dr. Kevin Haussler examines a 2025 study comparing electroacupuncture, laser acupuncture and no treatment in horses with thoracolumbar pain. Exploring the findings and limitations of this small randomized trial, he explains what changes in pressure sensitivity can tell us, why comparisons with untreated horses matter, and why a lack of significant difference between treatments does not establish equal effectiveness. He also considers how these findings fit into a broader clinical assessment focused on the horse’s comfort, movement and function. A practical, thought-provoking look at interpreting research for veterinarians, rehabilitation professionals, students and anyone interested in equine musculoskeletal health. Learn more at https://vetcompendium.org Article discussed: Comparison of Electroacupuncture vs. Laser Acupuncture in Horses with Thoracolumbar Back Pain Caitlin Sebring and colleagues, Journal of Equine Rehabilitation, 2025. This podcast is intended for educational purposes and does not replace individual veterinary assessment or advice.

How can we prepare young horses for athletic careers—and balance fitness, soundness and long-term development? In this episode of All Creatures, All Questions, Dr. Kevin Haussler speaks with Thoroughbred trainer Jessica Howell about her individualized approach to developing young equine athletes, bringing together classical horsemanship and modern exercise physiology. They explore the distinction between conditioning and cardiovascular fitness, the role of balance and self-carriage, and how bones, tendons and ligaments respond to different exercise demands. Jessica shares how she uses heart-rate monitoring to guide training progression, while discussing recovery, the challenges of introducing new approaches into traditional racing programs, and her aim of supporting both physical and mental readiness for competition. A practical, thought-provoking conversation for veterinarians, rehabilitation professionals, trainers, horse owners and anyone interested in equine athletic health. Guest Resource: The Zen Racehorse Facebook Page

Do abnormal X-rays always mean pain, and does an animal that isn’t limping necessarily feel comfortable? In this myth-busting episode of All Creatures, All Questions, Dr. Kevin Haussler challenges eight common beliefs about animal pain, movement and rehabilitation, drawing on examples from horses and dogs. He explores why imaging findings don’t always match symptoms, how apparent stubbornness can signal discomfort or fear, and why rest alone may not resolve musculoskeletal injuries. He also re-examines claims that massage removes toxins, chiropractic treatment puts bones back into place, perfect symmetry equals soundness, and declining comfort is simply an unavoidable part of ageing. A practical, thought-provoking discussion about looking beyond assumptions, recognizing subtle signs of pain and taking a whole-animal approach to care, for veterinarians, rehabilitation professionals, students and anyone interested in animal musculoskeletal health. Learn more at https://vetcompendium.org