Page 335 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse

PROGNOSIS

Recurrence of suspensory strains is relatively common, therefore the prognosis is guarded.
VetBooks.ir Injury to the branches of the suspensory ligament

This is a common injury in all types of horse. Usually a single branch is injured. Foot
imbalance may be a predisposing factor.

CLINICAL SIGNS

• Lameness which may range from mild to severe depending on the severity of the injury.
• Localized heat.

• Swelling which may be severe. This injury may be accompanied by swelling of the

fetlock joint and/or the digital flexor tendon sheath making palpation difficult.

• Pain on palpation of the affected branch.

DIAGNOSIS

Diagnosis is made on the clinical signs and ultrasonography. Radiography is usually carried

out to eliminate involvement of the distal part of the splint bones or the proximal sesamoid
bones. Possible lesions include:
• fractures of the splint and proximal sesamoid bones

• new bone deposition on the sesamoid bones or within the suspensory ligament.

TREATMENT

Treatment depends on the severity of the lesion. It may include:

• cold therapy
• support bandaging

• box rest

• a controlled exercise programme

• stem cell therapy

• platelet rich plasma (PRP)
• topical DMSO

• NSAIDs, e.g. phenylbutazone, as necessary

• balancing the feet by appropriate trimming and shoeing

• regenerative laser therapy (RLT)