12/08/2025
📌 Muscle Focus: Hamstring Group (Biceps Femoris, Semitendinosus, Semimembranosus)
The hamstrings form the powerful muscle mass at the back of the hindlimb.
Biceps femoris: hip extension, stifle extension, hock extension, and some abduction
Semitendinosus: hip extension, stifle flexion, hock extension
Semimembranosus: hip extension, adduction, and stifle flexion
🔹 They originate from the pelvis and sacrum and insert onto the tibia, fibula, and calcaneus (via the Achilles tendon).
➡️ Core Functions:
- Drive propulsion during canter/gallop
- Stabilise pelvis and stifle during stance
- Power in collection, acceleration, and jumping
- Assist in uphill and strength-demanding work
❗ Signs of Hamstring Dysfunction in Horses:
- Loss of propulsion or power from behind
- Shortened hindlimb stride, especially in canter
- Asymmetrical muscle bulk or croup shape
- Difficulty with transitions, especially downward
- Reluctance to track up or step under
- Sensitivity to palpation along back of thigh
🧠 Common Causes:
- Overstretching from slips or poor footing
- Repetitive strain in performance horses
- Sacroiliac joint dysfunction
- Compensatory overuse from hock or stifle pain
- Inadequate warm-up before intense work
🔍 Rehab & Physio Strategies:
- Massage and myofascial release along the hamstring group
- Controlled strengthening: hill work, raised poles, transitions
- Core activation to reduce hindlimb overload
- Active stretching for flexibility without overstraining
