Ligament Strain in Horses

Seek veterinary advice if you suspect this disease.

Ligament strains in horses are common injuries affecting the connective tissues that support joints and bones. These strains typically occur due to sudden twists, overextension, or repetitive stress on the ligaments, leading to varying degrees of lameness and discomfort.

Symptoms include swelling, heat, and sensitivity around the affected area, often accompanied by a decreased range of motion or reluctance to move.

Symptoms

Treatment

Treatment for ligament strains in horses focuses on rest and controlled exercise to allow healing of the injured ligament. Veterinary care may include anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling and pain, along with cold therapy and bandaging to support recovery.

In severe cases, regenerative therapies such as stem cell treatments or shockwave therapy may be considered to promote tissue repair and improve recovery outcomes

Prevention

Preventing ligament strains in horses involves several proactive measures. This includes implementing a gradual conditioning program to strengthen muscles and ligaments, ensuring proper warm-up and cool-down routines before and after exercise, and maintaining suitable footing to reduce the risk of slips or falls. A sudden increase in workload should also be avoided.

Regular veterinary check-ups and monitoring for signs of lameness or discomfort can help detect early signs of strain and enable prompt intervention to prevent further injury.