What Is a Pulled Suspensory in Horses?

Suspensory ligaments provide support to horses' lower limbs.

Suspensory ligaments run from a horse's knee (in the foreleg) or hock (in the rear leg) down each side of the cannon bone, supporting the fetlock joint. When a suspensory ligament is hyperextended, it can sprain or tear, commonly called a "pulled" ligament.

Causes

Strenuous activity or overexertion can damage the suspensory ligament. In an interview in "Thoroughbred Times," veterinarian Dr. Van Snow cited working the horse in deep footing, lack of fitness and poor hoof balance as additional causes.

Symptoms

A horse with a pulled suspensory ligament typically exhibits mild lameness or a shortened stride. The horse might improve after resting, only to exhibit the same symptoms once work is resumed. The ligament itself may appear swollen.

Diagnosis

Initial diagnosis begins with an examination and palpation of the affected limb; however, only an ultrasound examination can provide a definitive diagnosis.

Treatment

Horses with suspensory injuries are placed on stall rest with daily hand-walking. Corticosteroids and anti-inflammatory medication can speed healing. Dr. Snow also recommends shock-wave therapy.

Prognosis

Horses with suspensory injuries often return to their previous level of activity; however, the area will remain prone to re-injury, because less elastic scar tissue will replace the damaged tissue.

Warning

Suspensory injuries heal slowly, and the horse often shows outward improvement before the ligament has fully healed. The horse should receive regular ultrasound examinations to monitor progress.

References

• Thoroughbred Times
• "Back to Work: How to Rehabilitate or Recondition Your Horse"; Lucinda Dyer; 2007