Roach back...

[Lill]

Can someone explain what this is exactly and what problems it could/would cause?

 

[rabatsa]

It is an arch from behind the withers to the croup. Can cause the saddle to slip forward. If caused by the bone structure it can be a strong back but if caused by muscle spasm it is a sign of serious pain and weakness. Needs a vet to decide which. The latter is not present as a baby though. Hope that helps.

 

[Lill]

What about in a 5yo (lightly backed) warmblood? That wouldn't be the muscle thing then?

 

[jumpthemoon]

[ QUOTE ]
If caused by the bone structure it can be a strong back

[/ QUOTE ]

I thought it caused the back to lack suppleness? Also can mean the quarters aren't set on right and lead to other complications? I always thought this was quite a bad conformation fault - surely if roach backs were 'strong' backs they would be desired and not a fault?

 

[rabatsa]

If not bad in a youngster just backed it can muscle up as a proper back. It is bad conformation but just because there is less flexion does not always equal weak. The opposite a sway back though is forced to always go hollow whereas the roach can round.

 

[Bossanova]

I know several extremely good jumpers (we're talking 1.40 horses) with bad roach backs. Therefore it wouldnt put me off!

 

[minkymoo]

Take a look at this - Fugly horse has nearly all the conformation pictures/answers you might need! In fact -- there is an article on sway backs & roach backs...

http://fuglyhorseoftheday.blogspot.com/2007/07/baby-got-backbut-it-aint-good-one.html