Equine Suspensory Ligament Injuries

A horse's suspensory apparatus consists of the ligaments, tendons, and muscles that support his ankles. The tendons run from his ankles, up the back of his legs, and around his ankle itself. These are the muscles and ligaments responsible for picking up and setting down the horse's feet. They also act as shock absorbers in his legs. Overuse can cause injury to these ligaments.

  1. Ligament Strains

    • Most suspensory injuries occur when a ligament becomes so stretched that it physically cannot snap back into place. This occurs when a horse is overworked, tired, or working in very deep footing. These injuries are the equivalent of a person straining his knee or ankle and are treated with rest and medication. In most cases, strained ligaments heal on their own and return to form if the horse is given time off from any strenuous activity.

    Ligament Tears

    • In some cases, a suspensory ligament is stretched to the point of breaking. This is a much more serious injury to the horse because it constitutes structural damage and can cause more serious lameness. There may be dramatic physical symptoms, such as the ligament balling up at the back of the horse's leg instead of stretching down to the ankle as it should. Broken suspensory ligaments may require surgery for reattachment and are not guaranteed to heal.

    Ligament Lesions

    • Lesions on or holes in the ligaments are called suspensory desmitis and may affect any of the various ligaments in the suspensory apparatus. Consistent wear and tear on the horse's legs can produce these lesions, which are especially common where the ligaments rub against bones or other ligaments. Lesions require time off and generally heal in three to six months with appropriate rest.