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Bursitis in Horses

Seek veterinary advice if you suspect this disease.

Bursitis is extremely common in horses. It is inflammation within the bursa and can be classified as either true or acquired. The bursa is a sac that is filled with fluid found between tissues of muscles, skin, tendons and bone. The fluid provides lubrication reducing rubbing, friction or irritation within the leg.

Symptoms of Bursitis in Horses

  • Swelling in all legs
  • Swelling in one leg
  • Hot legs
  • Pain
  • Stiff posture
  • Abnormal change in gait
  • Reluctance to move
  • Lameness

Treatment of Bursitis in Horses

Your veterinarian will create an appropriate treatment plan for your horse depending on the affected bursa and the severity of the condition.

Rest will most likely be advised. Stall rest is always best with a thick layer of dry bedding for a cushion should your horse prefer to lie down. Pressure bandages or splints to help immobilize the affected leg may be used. Cold applications to the affected area will help reduce swelling. Cold applications work best in the early stages of acute bursitis.

Corticosteroid and anti-inflammatory medications may be used to help reduce swelling and eliminate pain. In cases of septic bursitis, aggressive antibiotics are needed to treat the infection. Surgical drains may need to be implanted if the fluid buildup is excessive. In some cases, removal of the bursa or closing the puncture is needed.

Prevention of Bursitis in Horses

Owners prevent the onset of bursitis by:

  • Monitoring limbs for abnormal swelling daily
  • Monitoring horses for lameness daily
  • Return to work from any layoffs gradually

How Happie can help you manage your horse's health

Happie Horse App digitale Gesundheitsakte

Digital health management offers numerous benefits in modern equine healthcare.

With the Happie Horse App, you can track symptom patterns and body values, such as Temperature, Pulse and Respiration. Allowing you to notice abnormal changes in body and behaviour early on, leading to more successful treatments.

The Happie symptom checker allows you to add all of your horse’s abnormal symptoms in order to present potential causes and diseases.

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