Equine Shoulder Injuries

Horses are huge animals that are revered for their power and grace. Able to run at speeds of up to 35 mph and weighing up to 1200 lbs, they are an animal to be reckoned with. They can also sustain injuries during their performance, and shoulder injuries are fairly common.

  1. Significance

    • Hurting the shoulder effectively disables the equine athlete. The shoulder is the powerhouse that holds and distributes the weight of the neck and back and delivers it to the legs for motion. When it cannot function, that side of the horse becomes handicapped.

    Types

    • Shoulder injuries range from a mild strain to a broken bone. The latter is rare, given the bone is so large and thick, but even a hairline fracture can cripple the horse. Strains and sprains are more common and have a better prognosis.

    Diagnosis

    • It is important to have a veterinarian diagnose the shoulder problem. Because the shoulder is critical to the soundness of the horse, it is important to get a correct diagnosis and a good plan for treatment.

    Treatment

    • The main treatment for a shoulder injury is rest. Getting weight and strain off the injured shoulder and keeping it off is essential, allowing the injury to heal. Keeping the horse confined will be necessary for a few weeks at least.

    Effects

    • Lingering effects of a shoulder injury can be moderate to severe. If the injury is to the bone, the horse may well experience issues for life. If muscle or soft tissue related, a full recovery with no long-term effects is possible with good care.