EquiHands Equine Integrated Bodywork

Nothing like a shavings pillow! 😴

Hyoid Restrictions- can show up anywhere from the mouth to the hind limb

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝟏𝐬𝐭 𝐑𝐢𝐛
The first rib is the start of the rib cage. It is surrounded by many structures and systems. Horses vary from humans including positioning and structures, but the basics of function can be correlated. We want to bring awareness to owners and professionals so they can learn more about the body of a horse for greater understanding. Hopefully this helps make better choices for their horses towards balance and wellness in entirety.

If horse has symptoms or issues with hoof balance, respiration, front limb, hyoid, mastication, girthy, reluctance to move forward, the 1st ribs mobility (or immobility) could be a major contributor to issues.

The 1st rib attaches between the sternum, C7 (last vertebra of the neck) & Th1 (the first thoracic vertebrae). The 1st rib is always in motion and surrounded by delicate structures which include:
• Blood flow to the front limbs, neck and head
• Muscles of the front limbs, neck and head
• Neurology to the limbs, neck and head
• Diaphragm
• Hyoid
• Cranial Nerves including Vagul Nerve

The 1st rib had many jobs, and one is to aid in breathing (inspiration and expiration). The mobility works with muscles surrounding the scapula and sternum. For the mobility to exist, it must have surrounding structures (including muscles) that can move easily and freely.

The Phrenic Nerve innervates the diaphragm and along its path it runs in between the muscles near the 1st rib. When immobility exists with the 1st rib, diaphragm immobility exists as well. It’s all connected.

Common symptoms associated with 1st rib immobility (including but not limited to):
• Respiratory concerns
• Hoof imbalance or trouble growing hoof
• Girthy (can be nippy or a horse with attitude)
• Dental & TMJ imbalance & immobility
• Proprioception issues
• Reluctance to move forward
• And more…

Need more push❓
The biceps femoris is one of the largest muscles in your horse’s hindquarters. It’s literally everything for movement and strength but ironically, it is incredibly superficial only really being covered by skin and fascia!

🧠 Fun Fact
It’s one of the first muscles to activate when your horse pushes off the ground, so it’s really important for strong, expressive movement.

✅ How to Strengthen It
To build up this important muscle, include exercises like hill work, transitions on a slope, raised pole work, and backing up in hand. These encourage engagement of the hind end and activate the biceps femoris through controlled, weight bearing movement. Aim for rhythm, balance, and straightness rather than speed or power.

Consistency is key so please make sure you are turning these things into a regular routine and not just all guns blazing for one week then nothing!