Facial Sensitivity

Headshaking in horses is most commonly associated with increased sensitivity of the trigeminal nerve, a major facial nerve responsible for sensation in the horse’s face. In affected horses, this nerve appears to become hypersensitive, meaning that normal stimuli, such as light, wind, or touch, can trigger a pain response.

This form of the condition is known as trigeminal-mediated headshaking and is considered the most common type.

However, it is important to recognise that not all headshaking cases are neurological. In some instances, similar symptoms may be caused by underlying physical or environmental factors that should be carefully ruled out.

These may include:

• Dental problems
• Poorly fitting tack or bridle pressure
• Ear irritation or infection
• Sinus issues
• Allergies or environmental irritants
  

Because of this, headshaking is typically diagnosed by ruling out other possible causes before identifying it as trigeminal-mediated.

In horses with trigeminal-mediated headshaking, symptoms are often triggered or worsened by specific environmental or physical factors.

The most commonly reported triggers include:

• Sunlight (photic headshaking) - bright light is a well-known trigger in many cases
• Wind or airflow - particularly when riding at speed
• Exercise - symptoms often intensify during work
• Seasonal changes - many horses show signs in spring and summer
  

These triggers can make the condition unpredictable and, in some cases, difficult to manage without intervention.

Managing headshaking in horses can be challenging, and there is rarely a single solution that works in every case. Instead, a combination of approaches is often required to reduce symptoms and improve the horse’s comfort and rideability.

Veterinary Assessment
Before implementing any management strategy, a thorough veterinary examination is essential. Because headshaking is often a diagnosis of exclusion, underlying issues such as dental problems, sinus disease, or tack-related discomfort should be ruled out first.

In some cases, veterinary treatment options may be recommended, particularly where symptoms are severe or significantly impact the horse’s welfare.

Environmental and Physical Management
Many horses benefit from simple adjustments that reduce exposure to known triggers. These may include:

• Using a nose net, which can help reduce stimulation of the trigeminal nerve
• Avoiding riding in bright sunlight, strong wind, or peak pollen times
• Adjusting exercise routines to quieter or more controlled environments
• Ensuring correct tack fit to minimise pressure and discomfort
  

While these strategies may not eliminate symptoms entirely, they can make a meaningful difference in day-to-day management.

Nutritional Support
As trigeminal-mediated headshaking is associated with nerve hypersensitivity, nutritional support may play a role in helping to maintain normal nerve function.

Magnesium, in particular, is known to contribute to normal nerve transmission and muscle function. Supporting optimal magnesium levels in the diet may help some horses better regulate nerve responses and reduce sensitivity to triggers.

Nutritional approaches are typically used as part of a broader management plan and may be especially beneficial in horses where symptoms are linked to heightened reactivity or seasonal changes.

Long-Term Management
Headshaking is often a chronic condition, meaning that ongoing management is usually required. With the right combination of strategies, many horses can experience a significant improvement in symptoms and quality of life.

Early intervention, careful observation of triggers, and a consistent management approach are key to achieving the best possible outcome.

Nupafeed MAH® is specifically formulated to support normal nerve function in horses, making it particularly relevant for those affected by headshaking linked to nerve sensitivity.

At the core of Nupafeed MAH® is a highly bioavailable form of magnesium. Magnesium plays a key role in the regulation of nerve transmission and helps to maintain normal neuromuscular function. By supporting the horse’s nervous system, it may help to reduce hypersensitivity to common triggers such as light, wind, or exercise.

Unlike standard magnesium supplements, Nupafeed MAH® uses a unique formulation designed for optimal absorption, ensuring consistent and effective support.

Nupafeed MAH® can be used as part of a comprehensive management approach, alongside environmental adjustments and veterinary guidance, to help improve comfort and rideability in affected horses.