Equine Suspensory Injuries

All types and breeds of horses are prone to tendon and ligament injures. Ligaments join bone to bone and are formed from collagen fibers that make up connective tissue. The suspensory ligament lies along the back of the cannon bone in horses, which is in the lower part of the leg. Injury to the suspensory ligament can be traumatic for both horse and owner.

  1. The Suspensory Apparatus

    • The suspensory apparatus is the support for the horse's leg below the knee also known as the hock. Various ligaments and bones make up the suspensory apparatus. They connect the cannon bone to the back of the fetlock joint located above the back of the hoof. The suspensory apparatus provides a springlike motion. When there is pressure on the limb, the suspensory apparatus prevents the fetlock joint from overextending.

    Injury to the Suspensory Ligament

    • When the ligament fiber bundles become overstretched or torn, an injury will result. An equine suspensory ligament injury most often occurs when the fetlock is overextended during a stride. Suspensory desmitis is an injury to the body of the suspensory ligament and is the most common injury in horses. Chronic suspensory desmitis can lead to splint bone injury due to the thickening of the ligament.

    Signs of Injury

    • Although the clinical signs may vary, acute injuries are usually characterized by swelling, heat, pain and limping when pressure is applied. A horse may show lameness for a short period of time, then seem to be doing fine. Poor balance and raising up the hoof are signs the ligament is painful. Chronic injuries often show signs of extended lameness.

    Diagnosis

    • The standard way to diagnose a suspensory ligament injury is by ultrasound. A long linear fiber pattern that is solid white indicates normal ligaments. If the ultrasound shows a black or gray appearance with a disrupted pattern, then an injury is likely.

    Treatment

    • A suspensory ligament injury typically takes a long time to heal. Your vet will probably prescribe anti-inflammatory treatment. Prevent the horse from exercising. Stall rest and hand walking are recommended as well. The vet will also likely recommend that you run cold water over the injury for 20 minutes twice daily. Recheck the injury every 60 days with an ultrasound. Patience is important in the healing process. Surgery could be necessary depending on the injury. It is important that the horse and owner comply with the veterinarian's orders.