How Do You Treat Suspensory Ligaments In Horses?
Injury to a suspensory ligament is common in high-performance horses including race horses, show jumpers, barrel racers and polo ponies. Suspensory ligaments are under a large amount of strain, as they help support the horse’s weight and cushion their joints during intense activity. Located between the flexor tendon and the cannon bone, the suspensory ligament is essential to a horse’s soundness and ability to perform. Injuries to this ligament can end an equine career, but they can also be treated successfully, depending upon the location and severity of the damage. A licensed vet should be involved in every step of the treatment process, as this is not an injury to treat on your own. While there are surgical treatment options available, it is often best to consider non-surgical treatment first, if the injury allows. Diagnose the injury. A vet can use an ultrasound to determine the location and severity of the injury. This is a crucial step, as the results will dictate the best treatm