Equine Water Treadmill Supporting Hind Suspensory Health
When a horse is diagnosed with degenerative changes in their hind suspensory ligaments, it can be a significant concern for owners. While the term "degenerative" might sound daunting, it's crucial to understand the specific diagnosis and prognosis from your veterinarian. Unlike the systemic and widespread condition of DSLD (Degenerative Suspensory Ligament Desmitis or Equine Systemic Proteoglycan Accumulation), localized degenerative changes in the suspensory ligaments often have a good prognosis, especially with targeted rehabilitation. When fetlocks begin to drop due to weakened support, building specific muscle strength and reducing strain on the ligaments becomes paramount. EquiTread's water treadmill therapy offers a powerful and precise approach to support these horses.
Suspensory Ligament Degeneration vs. DSLD: Understanding the Difference
It's important to distinguish between a localized degenerative suspensory ligament issue and DSLD:
Degenerative Suspensory Ligament (DSL) Injury/Changes: This refers to specific, often localized, degeneration or weakening within one or more suspensory ligaments. It can result from chronic strain, overuse, or aging. The prognosis is often good with appropriate management, rest, and rehabilitation, aiming to strengthen surrounding structures and reduce stress on the ligament. The primary goal is to support the affected ligament and prevent further breakdown.
DSLD (Degenerative Suspensory Ligament Desmitis / Equine Systemic Proteoglycan Accumulation - ESPA):This is a much broader, progressive, and systemic disease. It involves the widespread degeneration of elastic connective tissues throughout the body, not just the suspensory ligaments. While DSLD manifests prominently in the suspensories, it affects multiple organs and tissues. It is a genetic condition with no known cure, and management focuses on comfort and slowing progression.
For a horse with localized hind suspensory degeneration and a good prognosis, the focus shifts to strategic support and strengthening, which is where EquiTread excels.
How EquiTread Provides Targeted Support for Hind Suspensories
When hind suspensories are compromised, and fetlocks begin to drop, the goal is to reduce the direct strain on the ligaments while simultaneously building the muscle support needed to stabilize the joint and lift the fetlock. EquiTread's water treadmill therapy is uniquely equipped to do this:
Crucial Weight-Bearing Reduction for Ligament Relief: The buoyancy of the water dramatically reduces the weight-bearing load on the horse's limbs, directly lessening the strain on the hind suspensory ligaments. When the water is at the level of the stifle, approximately 40-60% of the horse's weight is supported. This allows the horse to exercise and move without the full concussive force that would otherwise stress the already compromised ligaments, giving them an opportunity to heal and recover.
Targeted Muscle Building for Fetlock Support: The resistance of the water provides a gentle yet highly effective way to strengthen the muscles of the hindquarters (gluteals, hamstrings, quadriceps) and the deep core muscles. These muscles are vital for:
Propulsion and Engagement: Building strength in the hindquarters allows the horse to carry more weight behind and propel itself forward more efficiently, reducing the reliance on the suspensories for support.
Lifting the Back and Engaging the Core: The water encourages the horse to lift its back and engage its abdominal muscles, which indirectly helps to support the hind limbs and maintain better posture, taking pressure off the lower leg structures.
Stabilizing the Fetlock: Stronger muscles surrounding the fetlock joint provide external support, helping to counteract the dropping tendency and improve overall limb stability.
Controlled, Symmetrical Movement: The treadmill belt forces the horse to move in a straight line with a consistent, even tempo. This encourages symmetrical limb loading and gait patterns, which is critical for horses with suspensory issues to prevent compensatory lameness and ensure even muscle development on both hind legs.
Improved Circulation and Reduced Inflammation: The hydrostatic pressure of the water, combined with movement, promotes increased blood flow and lymphatic drainage in the lower limbs. This helps to manage any residual inflammation in the suspensories and delivers essential nutrients for healing.
Enhanced Proprioception: Moving through the water challenges the horse's balance and coordination. This improved body awareness (proprioception) helps the horse learn to use its hind limbs more effectively and symmetrically, further supporting the suspensories.
A Strategic Rehabilitation Partner
For a horse with degenerative hind suspensory ligaments and a good prognosis, EquiTread is not just a therapy; it's a strategic rehabilitation partner. By providing a controlled environment that reduces weight-bearing, builds crucial supporting muscle, and promotes symmetrical movement, we help to alleviate strain on the ligaments, improve fetlock support, and accelerate recovery.
As always, EquiTread therapy should be part of a comprehensive rehabilitation plan developed and overseen by your veterinarian. Our experienced therapists will work closely with your veterinary team to tailor a water treadmill program that prioritizes your horse's recovery, strengthens their hindquarters, and supports the long-term health of their suspensory ligaments.
Invest in Your Horse's Future Soundness
If your horse is facing degenerative changes in their hind suspensory ligaments, EquiTread offers a proactive and effective path to recovery and enhanced soundness. Contact us today to discuss how our water treadmill therapy can help your equine partner regain strength, stability, and comfort.
Important Note: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered veterinary advice. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease in animals. Please consult with a qualified veterinary professional for any animal health concerns or before making any decisions related to your horse's health or treatment. Any therapy program should be developed and continuously monitored in strict consultation with a veterinarian.
