Education Zone

The structures in a horse’s feet are responsible for supporting the full weight of the horse over a small area. Routine foot care is therefore extremely important, as any problems in the feet can be extremely detrimental to mobility and health. Structure of the foot Coronary band This is located at the top of the hoof and is responsible for creating horn that makes up the hoof wall. Periople This is the outer layer of the hoof that forms a protective covering on the hoof wall. It is responsible for regulating moisture content in the horn, secreted from the perioplic ring above the coronet. Hoof wall The hoof wall is the exterior of the hoof, made from a keratin-based substance.It provides a hard protective layer around the internal parts in the foot. It takes 9-12 months for the hoof to grow from the coronary band to the toe. In order for the horn to grow correctly and form a healthy foot, the horse must be provided with a good diet and be in good health. These factors must be checked if the horn starts to become brittle and weak or if the foot looks badly formed. A feed supplement of biotin may be helpful to promote good horn growth. Sole This is a tough structure that provides external protection to the sensitive sole underneath. It is slightly concave and is not weight bearing. Frog The frog has an extruding triangular structure which extends from the heel to halfway down the foot. Its function is to absorb concussion, provide grip and be a weight-bearing surface for the foot. It also ensures that a healthy blood supply reaches the foot. The grooves along each side of the frog allow for expansion when it makes contact with the ground. Inside the foot Sensitive sole This is found underneath the pedal bone, within the insensitive sole. It produces the new cells that replace lost layers of the insensitive sole. Digital cushion The digital cushion is found between the pedal bone and deep flexor tendon. It is an elastic, fibrous pad that absorbs concussion from ground impact. It also helps to push blood back up the leg. Lateral cartilages These are attached to the pedal bone and serve to protect the coffin joint. They also help absorb concussion. Laminae The insensitive laminae are supportive structures that attach to the hoof wall and interlock with the sensitive laminae. The sensitive laminae then attach and support the pedal bone. The divide between sensitive and insensitive laminae can been seen as a white line on the sole of the foot. Conformation This is extremely important, as the feet are obviously essential to the horse! They should be even and round in shape and in proportion with the rest of the horse. The fronts should be of equal size and shape and so should the hinds. The front feet should slope forwards and be at a 45 degree angle to the ground, and on through the fetlock and pastern. The hind feet should be at an angle of 50-55 degrees to the ground. The hoof wall should be smooth and free from cracks. Any lines could indicate poor nutrition or past cases of laminitis. Poor conformation in the feet can result in strains to tendons and ligaments, tripping and bruising. Many foot conformational faults can be improved by a good farrier and over a period of time. Routine care Apply hoof oil every other day during the summer to help prevent splits and cracks Pick out feet every day with a hoof pick Check shoes for wear and tear and signs that a farrier is needed – such as risen clenches, pinching across the bulbs of the heel, overgrown and misshapen feet Check unshod horses for splits, cracks, flares and overgrown misshapen hooves Ensure that the farrier attends shod feet every four to six weeks, and unshod feet every six to ten weeks Farrier Great care must be taken when selecting a farrier, so ask your vet for recommendations. Correct trimming and shoeing is vital to the horse’s welfare, and any mistakes can lead to serious, lasting damage. The horse’s feet should be correctly balanced whether shod or unshod. Balance is important as inaccuracy can lead to lameness and aggravate navicular syndrome and laminitis. It can affect the whole movement and development of the horse and cause ongoing problems. Shoes are not always needed. It depends on the amount and type of work the horse is doing. Sometimes only front shoes may be needed. The farrier will be able to advise on the best option for the individual horse. Checklist Always check the horse’s feet after the farrier has visited The horse should be sound. If he is even slightly lame or lame a few days later, the farrier must be recalled immediately to address the problem. Check the balance of the feet. The angle should be around 45-50 degrees from the ground at the front and 50-55 degrees from the ground at the back. The angle through the pastern, fetlock and hoof should be 45 degrees. When viewed from the heel, with the foot raised, the sides of the foot should be level. With the foot on the ground both sides of the hoof should be of equal length. If shod, the shoe should fit the foot with no gaps between the shoe and the foot. The clenches should be about one third of the way up the hoof wall from the floor. They should be in a straight line and be flush with the hoof. The toe clips should also be flush with the hoof wall. The sole of the foot should not be touching the ground in unshod horses The sides of the frog should be trimmed. The frog should be level or slightly below the edge of the hoof wall. If any deviations from the checklist are found, speak to your farrier. There may be a reason for this, such as correction of conformational defects, but the feet may need to be re-checked. Common ailments in the feet In most cases of lameness, the cause is usually found in the foot. Bruised soles These are caused by an injury to the sole of the foot, usually by standing on a hard object or concussion from hard ground. They can also be due to poor trimming or shoeing. Symptoms are acute lameness that gets progressively worse, red or bruised areas seen on the sole, and reaction to pressure on the sole due to pain. The treatment is to restrict movement and keep on a soft surface – a deep bed in a stable, sand school or woodchip area until sound. If in severe pain, call the vet who may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs and check for any infection. Thrush This is caused by continuous exposure to a damp environment without sufficient care and attention to the feet, such as poor stable management, wet or damp bedding, and wet, muddy fields. It is a bacterial infection and if left untreated, it can move to the sensitive, internal structures in the foot. Symptoms are a black, smelly discharge around the frog, and possibly lameness if severe. The treatment is to scrub out the foot and apply eucalyptus oil (available from most chemists) repeatedly along the grooves of the frog until it clears. The farrier should trim the sides of the frog to remove any damaged tissue. If there is infection and lameness call the vet and follow the advice – it may need poulticing. To prevent thrush, keep the feet clean, scrub them out and apply eucalyptus oil at least once a week during the winter, and when necessary in the summer. Make sure that there is a dry area in the field, for example hard standing, if the horse is out all the time. Make sure bedding is kept clean and dry. Seedy toe This is the separation at the white line. It usually starts at the toe and gradually progresses up the hoof wall. The hole becomes filled with white, dead material. It normally occurs when the toes are allowed to become too long, but it can be a result of laminitis or of concussion on hard ground. This condition needs to be managed by regular, correct trimming by a farrier – the hole will then grow out. Some of the tissue may need to be cut away and packed with putty. There may be an infection so, if the horse is lame, call the vet, as antibiotics may be needed. The foot may then need to be tubbed with water and Epsom salts and poulticed. Laminitis This is caused by several factors, but the main reason is an overload of soluble carbohydrates in the digestive system (see the All About Pets leaflet, Laminitis (H14)). Symptoms are a reluctance to move, increased digital sesamoid pulse, walking heel to toe, and leaning back onto the hind feet. Call the vet immediately and follow the treatment plan given. Remove the horse from grass and take him into a deep bed of shavings, cardboard or sand until sound. To prevent laminitis, a properly formulated high fibre diet is necessary with strict weight control, and regular farrier attention. Infections in the foot (pus in the foot) This is caused by puncture wounds, seedy toe, or bruising. It is the most common reason for lameness. Symptoms are an extreme lameness due to the inflammation in the foot, increasing pressure against the hoof wall, causing pain. There is an increased digital sesamoid pulse in the affected hoof, and reaction to pressure on the infected site due to pain. Call the vet, as the infection (pus) should be released from the foot by digging out the infected area. This can also be done by a farrier. The horse will be sound or at least almost sound after this procedure. The foot will then need to be tubbed and poulticed to draw out the rest of the infection. If not treated, the leg can begin to swell and the infection can spread through the foot and burst out of the coronary band. In extreme cases the vet may prescribe antibiotics alongside practical procedures. Also, ensure that the horse is covered for tetanus, as puncture wounds are an ideal way for tetanus to enter the body. A vet should see all puncture wounds to the foot because if they are deep enough, they can infect the pedal or navicular bone. This is a serious condition and needs surgical attention. It can cause damage to sensitive, internal structures including tendons and could cause permanent lameness. Nail bind/prick This is caused by the farrier putting a nail too close to the sensitive part of the foot (nail bind) or actually piercing the sensitive part of the foot (nail prick). Symptoms are lameness after shoeing, either immediately or up to a couple of days later. To treat it, the farrier needs to remove the nail and the foot should be tubbed and poulticed as with a foot infection. Call the vet if lameness continues, or if the farrier recommends it. Check tetanus vaccinations are up to date. Sand/grass cracks A sand crack starts at the coronet band and works down, whereas a grass crack runs from the ground towards the coronet band. Both are caused by poor foot conformation or condition, poor or irregular farrier attention, or an injury. Call the farrier for treatment. The cracks can be stopped from spreading by marking a groove in the hoof wall above or below the crack, or by putting clips around the start of a grass crack. With regular, correct farriery, the cracks should grow out. To prevent cracks, ensure regular, correct farriery. A dietary supplement of biotin can also promote good hoof condition and growth. Original article produced by The Blue Cross Organisation. Read more at www.bluecross.org

A guide to fitting your saddle When you want to get the best out of your horse, it’s vitally important your saddle fits correctly and comfortably. When fitting your saddle, it is important to have a basic understanding of the muscles, bone-structure and movement of your horse around the saddle area. The specific saddle-support area (diagram 1) of the horse consists of: The Spinal Column and the Thoracic Vertebrae; The Wither; The Ribs; The Scapula and the Longissimus Dorsi. The muscular diagram of the horse shows 3 main muscles that can be affected by a badly fitting saddle: Where should the saddle fit on the horse? Firstly, place the saddle forward of the horse’s wither, then slide the saddle back as far as it will comfortably go. This is determined by the conformation of the horse, but the resting point of the saddle should correspond with the lowest point of the horse’s back. The points of the saddle tree should now be located in the natural depression that is found directly behind the horse’s scapula (shoulder) and must not rest on or impede the scapula. Why is it important to get the saddle in the correct position? For the horse’s comfort and to allow you to adopt an effective riding position. A common mistake is to place the saddle too far forward over the horse’s withers. (diagram3) This will have the effect of placing the points of the saddle-tree over the horse’s scapula, causing pressure which could then impede the horse’s movement and may even cause saddle sores. What your saddle fitter will look for The wither measurement. Your saddle fitter will take an accurate measurement of your horse’s wither. This measurement is crucially important to ensure the front of the saddle gives absolute clearance of this sensitive area of the horse. Any direct pressure here will cause pinching and discomfort and can result in loss of performance and resistance in the horse. This measurement also allows your saddle fitter to check whether the horse is narrow, medium or wide across the shoulders. Remember, your horse can change shape depending on fitness, age and time of the year and this will affect how his saddle fits. Beware! An incorrect saddle-fitting of the withers will result in a saddle that is either too narrow or too wide at the wither. A saddle that is too narrow will be too high at the pommel. Effect on the horse: This will cause undue lateral pressure on either side of the withers, from the points of the saddle-tree and saddle-bars causing pain, sores/bruising of the muscles. In human terms this is similar to wearing shoes that are too tight! Effect on the rider: As the pommel will be too high the rider will be pushed backwards as though they are riding uphill. This will cause the rider to become unbalanced and subsequently cause the horse to feel unbalanced. A saddle that is too wide will be too low on the horse’s withers. Effect on the horse: There will be insufficient clearance of the horse’s withers, so the pommel of the saddle will put pressure on the sensitive wither area causing soreness and rubbing. The panel contact will also not be evenly distributed. Effect on the rider: The saddle will dip down at the front, making the rider feel unbalanced, like riding downhill. The Saddle Gullet. Channel The channel of the saddle gullet must be wide enough to ensure that it does not to press against the horse’s spine, as this is another extremely sensitive area. The panel of the saddle should be designed so that it enables the rider’s weight to be distributed evenly over the full extent of the horse’s bearing surfaces on muscles either side of the vertebrae giving the spinal column sufficient clearance. A well manufactured saddle should allow for a gullet-channel with 3-4 fingers in width in order that the panels rest comfortably either side of the horse’s spinal column and thoracic vertebrae. What about the rider? It’s also crucial that the saddle fits the rider properly, to allow for an effective position to be maintained at all times. SADDLE SEAT – The rider should be able to place a minimum of a full palms width of their hand in front and behind when seating in the saddle. SADDLE FLAPS – The lower leg should hang below the saddle flap, otherwise you will not be able to use your legs effectively. If you have had your saddle fitted by a qualified saddle fitter, try and use a saddlecloth that is slim, bulky saddlecloths and numnahs can interfere with the fit. And remember – choose a saddle for your chosen discipline – i.e. jumping or dressage, alternatively a general purpose saddle is a great choice if you enjoy a bit of everything!

By Dr Katy Taylor,De Montfort University Head Shaking is not a single condition One of the most frustrating things about headshaking is that each case is unique. So, what causes headshaking in one horse may not be the cause in another. It’s important to recognise that headshaking is the symptom of a problem with the horse rather than being the problem itself, although it is often treated as such. There are over 60 known causes of headshaking, including ear, eye and respiratory problems, which makes a veterinary visit all the more important. Simply assuming your horse is an untreatable head shaker may cause more harm. Likewise, be wary of products that claim to cure all head shakers. Headshaking is not a behavioural or management problem Because headshaking often only arises when the horse is ridden, it is commonly attributed to tack problems, bad riding, or resistance. However, studies in the US and UK have shown that around 50% of head shakers also show symptoms at rest. So, whilst exercise always worsens the symptoms, most owners find that changes in tack or schooling have little effect. Researchers at De Montfort University and the University of Lincoln investigated head shakers and non‑head shakers and found no important differences in their diet, use or turnout. The relative unpredictability of the condition and symptoms suggest that the headshaking is not a behavioural one unlike weaving or nodding. Not all headshaking is caused by sunlight (photic headshaking) Head shaking has often been attributed to a reaction to sunlight, but whilst this may be so for some, especially animals in more sunny places like California, many European head shakers seem relatively unaffected by light. Riding indoors or at dusk can still bestow benefits other than by restricting exposure to light so the best test for the photic form of this problem is to carefully cover the horse’s face whilst exercising. Headshaking is not horse hay fever The seasonal nature of headshaking (50% of head shakers only have symptoms from March to October), together with the signs of nasal irritation, has led many to believe that headshaking is a respiratory disorder similar to human hay fever. However, vets remain sceptical because, in general, hay fever medication is not very effective. In addition, vets rarely find clinical signs of an allergic reaction. Although headshaking may be in response to particles in and around the nose, an allergic reaction may not necessarily be occurring. So what does cause headshaking? Given there are a variety of causes, a large proportion of head shakers are thought to be suffering from some kind of pain originating within the head. Nerve pain (neuralgia) has long been considered, ie. damage to the sensory nerves of the head, which may have resulted from physical damage to the nerves or following infection from certain viruses. The involuntary headshaking movement could be a response to the misfiring of a faulty nerve and the rubbing of the face in an attempt to relieve the discomfort caused. Facial neuralgia could account for the general hypersensitivity around the muzzle that many head shakers experience, particularly to rain, snow and wind. In some cases, exercise or particles may be causing the blood vessels in the nose to swell and ‘squash’ the nerve, causing it to misfire. The reasons why some horses head shake and others don’t are not yet known. Frequently the onset of their problem has been traced back to the beginning of the horse’s working life so the many changes that occur within the horse or in its environment during this time may hold part of the answer. Because the problem is often not apparent until the horse is exercised, headshaking could have arisen earlier when the horse was very young but has lain undetected until the horse was backed. Future research into how we can prevent headshaking in foals may be fortuitous once we know more about the causes of headshaking.

Acupuncture can be used as a complementary veterinary treatment for horses, and other animals, amongst other things it can provide pain relief and generally improve a horses’ well-being. Treatment involves stimulation of specific points of the body using very fine, solid needles. It causes inhibition of pain pathways and stimulates the release of pain relieving chemicals in the brain and spinal cord. Acupuncture is an act of veterinary surgery and so can only be performed by a vet. This stimulation can generate many responses within an individual. It can affect muscle, the circulatory, digestive, reproductive and urinary systems, as well as anti-body and hormone production. Conditions which can respond to acupuncture include: back pain, both acute and chronic; lameness – tendonitis, sesamoiditis, laminitis and navicular disease; COPD; chronic gastrointestinal disease (unresolved diarrhoea or constipation); post viral fatigue; paralysis or muscle spasm; behavioural problems and infertility. A course of treatment usually consists of weekly treatments for a minimum of four weeks then gradually extending the time between treatments to a maintenance level which is different for each individual. Chess Valley Equine use a Western Scientific approach to acupuncture treatments and find that where it is used, either alone or in combination with other therapies, the results are very good. Unfortunately there are a small number of individuals and conditions that will not respond to acupuncture. Please visit their website for all the services they can offer:  www.chessvalleyequine.com

How to tell if your horse is happy Although every horse owner knows when to contact the vet, farrier or dentist, most haven’t considered what to do when the problem isn’t physical. As part of everyday horse care, it is routine to look after your horse’s health and ensure his feet, teeth and back are in the best condition possible. However, although it is easy to measure physical attributes, many owners overlook psychological health. Having a happy horse is vitally important as it can benefit his confidence, mood and performance, as well as helping him to get more enjoyment out of everyday activities such as hacking and schooling. The human effect Although juggling work and looking after a horse can sometimes mean constantly rushing around, it is important to remember that horses can feel our energy levels as well as just responding to words and body language. Equine behaviourist Sophie Ostler stresses that horses are prey animals. “If horses sense we are hurrying them or getting impatient they pick up on this as a rushed energy, which translates to the ‘flight mode’. It is important to remain calm, as they look to us, the ‘heard leader’, for reassurance”. Body language is key To assess you horse’s happiness it is often useful to look at his body language during everyday handling – this can be a very good indicator of what he is feeling. “From a behavioural point of view, an unhappy horse will typically display certain signs,” says Sophie. Separation anxiety when leaving his field mates, a reluctance to stand still, or staring into the distance with head held high and a tense jaw are all elements to look out for. “When a horse is in this state it is important he is allowed to keep moving until his attention shifts to the handler,” Sophie points out. “If the horse is ‘made’ to stand still during this mental state he can feel trapped and it can activate his ‘flight’ mode, making his behaviour worsen”. We are all part of a herd Although a horse’s ‘unhappy’ behaviour may seem obvious, there are also many happiness indicators, too. A happy horse sees his owner as part of his heard, ideally the ‘heard leader’, and licking and chewing are signs of a horse submitting to your leadership. Other signs include being responsive and calm, a lowered head, soft eyes and relaxed jaw. A contented horse will seek affection from his owner and show respect by not invading their personal space. “Yawning is also a good sign,” says Sophie. “It doesn’t necessarily indicate a bored horse, but is a sign of relaxation. When horses are stressed or in ‘flight mode’ it is physically impossible for them to yawn due to their increased heart and respiratory rate.” What can you do? It is important to spend time with your horse to build up a bond of trust and respect. Groundwork is invaluable for this, and will have a positive effect of all areas of handling and ridden work. Sophie suggests introducing your horse to new things can help him build confidence and improve your relationship. “Horses are naturally inquisitive about everything, so this can be used to your advantage. The more positive you make new experiences, the more trusting your horse will become, and the braver he will be when entering new or unfamiliar situations.” You are the boss Spending more time with your horse on the ground will be invaluable to your relationship, but it is important to remember that you are the boss. An overconfident horse may try and take the role of ‘herd leader’ by displaying bolshy behaviour and trying to dominate his owner into submission – a situation which will be bad for both of you. Remain calm but assertive when working with your horse from the ground, and remember to use your voice and body language to remind your horse if his behaviour is unacceptable. However, “being the boss should not be confused with rough handling,” Sophie warns. “This does not make for a safe or happy horse and will just make his bad behaviour worse”. How to have a happy horse To have a happy horse, it is vital to be aware of what is important from their point of view. When something is bothering your horse, think of ways you might be able to help. For example, if he is agitated, remember that a threatened horse will want to run, so don’t insist he stands still. Allowing him to walk around will help him settle. Having a secure and happy horse will benefit his behaviour, mood and performance in the school. However, most importantly, it will benefit your relationship and improve your trust, bond and confidence in each other.

Over recent years ‘Kissing Spine’ seems to have become a more widespread and commonly diagnosed condition. The good news is that with the correct treatment and/or surgery many horses are making near to full recoveries and it doesn’t necessarily mean an end to their ridden career whether this is as a happy hacker or a competition horse.  What is Kissing Spine? Kissing spine is a disease of the spine whereby the spaces between the upper dorsal processes of the vertebrate become reduced and the vertebrate actually touch, or ‘kiss’, causing bone to bone contact and in some cases damage to the ligaments within the spine which causes the horse great discomfort. What are the Symptoms of Kissing Spine? Signs indicating kissing spine may include poor performance or a sudden change in behaviour both on the ground and when ridden such as bucking, bolting, rearing, struggling to maintain a particular canter lead, stiffness through the back and hind quarters, reluctance to have the back area touched, groomed or a saddle placed on it. How is Kissing Spine Diagnosed? When the symptoms are realised a veterinarian should be consulted. He will assess the horse by seeing it trot up and/or schooled and then refer for appropriate treatment which could be x-rays, nerve blocks in the area, ultrasounds or scintigraphy (bone scans). How are Horses treated for Kissing Spines? Kissing Spine can be treated a number of ways such as corticosteroid injections, surgery or in some cases it can be managed or pain alleviated by more holistic approaches. These methods may be fundamental to the horse’s recovery post treatment. Surgery is commonplace with many new methods being introduced with the advancements of technology, for example key hole surgery or Svend Kold’s method which has been proven successful. Where can I find information from owners whose horses have as kissing spines? A number of websites and social media pages are available for horse owners with kissing spine horses to share their experiences – how they cope from when they first receive a diagnosis, through the treatment process to how they can assist the recovery of their beloved horse. These websites may not include information from qualified practitioners such as veterinarians or physiotherapists so your own vet/physio should be consulted prior to trying anything new with your horse. Two sites which may help support existing owners include a blog by Ruth Bishop, a 24 year old Riding Instructor from Cornwall whose Thoroughbred X, Adam, was diagnosed with kissing spines in January 2013 and a Facebook group called ‘Horses with Kissing Spines’ – Ruth’s Blog Horses With Kissing Spines – These sites provide horse owners a place to communicate with other owners whose horse has had kissing spines and see what recovery programme has worked best and what additional products they can buy to help make this time easier and keep their horses as comfortable as possible.

Whatever your discipline, it is essential to take good care of your horse’s joints to prevent future problems occurring. Most horse owners know that regular care of legs, feet and back can help prevent future problems and prolong their horse’s working life. However, many overlook proper joint care, something that could impact on all of these areas. Daily activities and everyday life causes wear and tear and places stress on joints, so being aware of potential problems early is important. Ongoing joint care can help minimise the risk of problems or injury, aid fitness and improve all-round performance. Joints explained A horse’s joints are designed to absorb shock and bear the weight of the body, while helping them to move easily and without friction. There are three main types of joints: – Cartilaginous – these joints have limited movement, such as spinal column and pelvis – Fibrous – fixed joints, such as the skull – Synovial – these are the moveable joints, such as the fetlocks, stifles, hocks and knees As the most active joints in a horse’s body, synovial joints are also the most likely to incur injuries or problems. Each end of the bone is covered with a lubricated cartilage, which absorbs the forces placed on the joint as the horse moves, and it is when this lubrication is affected that friction can cause joints to wear as a result. How are they affected? Problems usually occur when joint damage happens faster than repair, and there are many ways in which a horse’s joints can be affected. Although care and consideration go some way to protecting from unnecessary deterioration, age and general movement will always cause wear and tear. Conformation is also key – the better a horse’s conformation, the more balanced they will be, so the less impact will be placed on the joints. Poor conformation can exacerbate joint problems, as it more stress is placed on compensating joints, causing more wear and tear. Fitness, diet, foot condition and type of work can also play a part in general joint condition. Work on hard or rough ground can affect the movable synovial joints in particular, as it creates extra shock and impact. Things to look out for Horse’s can suffer from many different types of joint injury or problem, and treatment can range from massage and hydro-therapy to intra-articular medication (the injection of a drug into the joint), depending on the seriousness. As part of the daily routine, it is important to keep an eye on joints – as you would the feet and back – and look out for any abnormalities. Signs can include lameness, heat or swelling and pain on movement or flexion. In these cases it is important to consult your vet who can advise on what the problems are, and the best course of treatment. Prevention is better than cure When it comes to joints, prevention is better than cure, so it is important to be aware of what causes them extra stress, and how this can be minimised. Warming up and cooling down after exercise is essential, as it helps keep joints supple and reduces the chance of damage or friction. Competitions do have an impact, so if you are competing, be aware of the ground condition – hard ground or rougher terrain than your horse is used to will place more stress on joints. Leaving time enough time for the horse to rest after strenuous exercise or competition will allow them to recover and reduce the chance of lasting problems. When schooling, gradually help your horse build up a resistance on different surfaces, this will help protect from injury, keep joints supple, and improve condition in the long run. What’s on the market? There are a wide range of supplements available, designed specifically to benefit a horse’s joints. These can be used to support existing conditions or problems, or just to help maintain and protect healthy joints, and are manufactured by an array of equine brands. Using protective boots is also very important, especially when competing. They give protection to legs and joints, by absorbing impact and concussion, and providing extra support. Every horse is different Although there is no way to prevent general wear and tear on your horse’s joints, there are effective ways to reduce it. Every horse is different, so it is important to look at cases individually, and help your horse build up joint resistance slowly. Conformation, age and workload all play a part in joint condition, and while these are factors that can’t be changed, others can. Proper care will ensure joints are kept in the best condition possible, increase stamina, and ultimately help prolong your horse’s working life.

Stretch & Flex Wraps are made of a modern material called Stomatex, designed to ensure your horse’s legs remain cool and dry while being well-supported and protected during exercise sessions. Both sets of wraps are wonderfully soft, pliable and flexible allowing the horse to move freely, without the feeling of restriction. The wraps have been designed with the comfort of the horse in mind, so are suitable for sensitive horses. It is important to get the correct size to fit your horse/pony. Sizes range from small to extra large including a medium narrow which has been designed specifically for those skinny leg horses (having the same cannon width as the small boot but the length of the medium). For further details see the size guide. Stretch & Flex is made from Stomatex® originally developed for human athletes. Stomatex® was designed to provide four-way stretch, to enable use around mobile joints, and an outstanding ability to keep the skin dry. It is commonly used in the manufacture of heat acclimatisation suits, padding for wheelchairs, special wetsuits and sports injury support bandages. The material mimics the way a leaf ‘breathes’, which allows the horses leg to stay cool and maintains an ideal skin temperature over an extended period of time. The way the material works is by efficiently moving trapped vapour molecules from beneath the fabric by the flexing action of minute dome shaped chambers which contain a tiny pore in the centre. This also gives it its unique appearance. To provide breathable protection, Stretch & Flex was also developed using Automotive Grade Cushioning Spacer Mesh. This mesh is strategically placed over the vulnerable tendon area for extra protection. The spacer fabric has an additional jersey fabric on the inside of the boot to create an even softer lining against your horse's leg. Ideal to act as a ‘cushion’ and comfortable to wear, the spacer fabric is also fantastic at letting heat and moisture pass through easily to get sweat and warmth away from the skin. Stretch & Flex Flatwork Wraps Our Flatwork Wraps cover the leg from knee/hock to fetlock with a similar shape to brushing boots. These are perfect for flatwork, schooling and hacking. The wraps offer supreme levels of comfort whilst protecting against minor scrapes and knocks. Flatwork Wraps have a protective cushioned panel on the inside of the leg that protects the horse's fetlock joints and splint bones. STRETCH & FLEX FLATWORK WRAPS Stretch & Flex Training Wraps Training Wraps are particularly good for young, unbalanced horses whilst training new movements, and for big moving horses. They offer extra support, designed to extend further down the leg supporting both the fetlock joint and pastern. Extra thick, soft padding protects the tendons, the inside of the cannon bone, and the fetlock joint. A wrap-around strap snugly supports the fetlock joint and prevents sand and grit from getting up inside the boot. STRETCH & FLEX TRAINING WRAPS

Why use horse boots, wraps and chaps? With so many boots available, finding the right boots for your horse can be confusing. As riders and horse owners, we ask our horses to live and work in ways that they would not in the wild.  This may be working harder, in different ways, with more repetition, on surfaces, carrying a weight and wearing horse shoes. As a result we need to provide them with leg protection against injury from external impact, self-inflicted harm, and stress-related problems. Why wear horse boots? The current fashion trend for ‘matchy-matchy’ should not be the reason to ‘dress’ your horse in boots. First and foremost, horse boots, wraps, chaps and bandages are worn to protect the horse’s legs from injury.  Leg injuries can be caused by brushing, knocks, grazes, over reaching, penetration and concussion. But the use of horse boots and bandages can itself cause problems associated with: Heat and moisture retention Restriction of movement or blood supply Excessive weight on the leg It’s important to weigh up all of these factors when deciding what boots to choose for your horse. Does your horse actually need to wear boots at all? Consider the level of work you are doing and the complexity of the work. Dressage horses may not need the same protection as a show jumper or event horse. Minimise risk – consider the negatives of wearing horse boots To minimise risk, boots should be chosen not only for the protection and support they provide, but also for the extent to which they keep the leg cool. This can be achieved by the use of modern breathable fabrics, combined with careful design and construction of the boot. The boot should allow air to flow from the leg though the boot to prevent heat build up. Overheating horses’ legs can cause long term tissue damage. Choose boots that are made of breathable fabrics. There are a lot of modern technical fabrics that actually actively allow the legs to remain cool as they exercise. Adding small amounts of weight to the end of the leg in the form of a boot increases the effort the horse must put in to move. A heavy boot or one which retains water or moisture can lead to injuries caused by tiredness. Wherever possible choose a lightweight boot that’s comfortable for the horse to wear.  Check that the boots are made from materials that won’t absorb and hold water when going through puddles, long grass or cross country. If boots are constructed of inflexible (i.e. stiff) material or if boots are applied too tightly, they have the potential to restrict joint movement. Look for boots made with flexible fabrics that move with the horse’s natural movements. Boots, wraps or bandages should be flexible and not applied too tightly. So now we know what features and design elements to look for when choosing horse boots, let’s look at what boots to wear when! Horse Boots Features & Benefits: Boots offer a choice for every discipline at any level from amateur to professional. Convenient and easy to use, with superb protection without restriction.Ideal for: schooling, flatwork, jumping, hacking, galloping, eventing, everyday use.SHOP HORSE BOOTS Leg Wraps Features & Benefits: Designed for soft, flexible protection and support during exercise. Combine the support offered by an exercise bandage and the convenience of a boot. Offer flexible protection that moulds to the exact contours of the horse's legs allowing complete freedom of movement. Eliminates rubs and chaffing caused by hard, ill fitting boots.Ideal for: schooling and hacking.SHOP LEG WRAPS Horse Chaps Features & Benefits: Designed to offer your horse's legs extra protection during turnout or stabling. Chaps extend down over the pastern, coronary band and sensitive heel area to provide extra protection to these vulnerable areas.Ideal for: turnout, mud fever prevention, leg protection in the stable.SHOP HORSE CHAPS

In my opinion the Equilibrium Magnetic Chaps are the unsung hero of the Equilibrium Range. My horses tend to wear them more over the winter months as they are spending a bit more time in the stable and long periods of turnout can be tricky in the unpredictable winter weather. The boots are a snug and soft fit and we tend to leave them on overnight as there’s no fear of them slipping or causing rubs. I tend to use the magnet boots mainly on my more advanced horses as it helps maintain bloodflow to the legs. They are also useful for any general knocks or bumps, and the magnets are all moveable so you can target specific areas.  About Daisy: Daisy is a talented young dressage rider based in Hertfordshire. Since starting British Dressage competition in 2012 , Daisy has won 7 British Dressage National Titles as well as the Pony Club Open Dressage National title. Latest Highlights include: Selected onto The British Equestrian Federation Young Professionals Programme supported by Sport England. 1st Keysoe Premier League in the PSG riding Affinity Bay, qualifying directly for the British Dressage Summer Nationals. 3rd place at the Pet Plan Inter I National Championships riding Affinity Bay.

About Mikey is an 11-year-old Irish Sports Horse, owned by Laura Szuca since 2014. They compete in showing and dressage, although Mikey hacks regularly and jumps from time to time. Mikey is prone to filled legs, especially after working hard and in the mornings after being stabled overnight. He is also at a prime age for arthritis, and like most horses with a bit of mileage – can start his ridden sessions a bit stiff, particularly in winter. Laura says: “If I am honest, I wasn’t sure if the magnetic therapy chaps would work. Were they just a fad, and yet another way to spend my hard-earned cash on my horse? I have been using them now for over a month and so feel I have given them a fair trial to see if they could make a difference to my horse, Mikey – an 11-year-old ISH with a pretty busy life. More and more recently his legs have been swelling up overnight, and he is now at a prime age for arthritis. Having read up on the Equilibrium magnetic chaps, and having used some of their other products before that I liked, I decided to purchase some. They can be used on front and back legs (I purchased a pair for both) and they fit well, one thing I really like about the product is that you can move the magnets to where you want them, which means if you think you have a problem area somewhere in the leg you can just pull the magnets off and then put them where you want them. For me, Mikey has a splint on both of his front legs, so I figured that if I am going to pick somewhere to put the magnets, there is as good a place as any. On his hind legs I have put the magnets up high to help any onset of arthritis. He wears them in his stable overnight and they don’t move an inch! The first thing I noticed after just a few days was the shape of Mikey’s leg – honestly – I have owned him for 3 years and have never seen such definition! There is no swelling, no puffiness and his legs both look and feel great. The second benefit, which to be honest I wasn’t really expecting... Was the difference in his splints, they have reduced in size - I was shocked! He’s had the splints around 12-18 months and I didn’t think you could really do anything for them at this stage, but I can honestly say they have both reduced in size, and the one on his right fore has almost gone. A miracle? I don’t know, but the only change I have made to his well-being is using the Equilibrium Magnetic Chaps. A definite 10/10 for me!” Equilibrium Magnetic Chaps The Equilibrium Magnetic Chaps provide a quick and effective way of providing magnetic therapy to horses. They are suitable for front and hind legs, are quick and easy to put on and can conveniently be left on overnight in the stable. The magnets are also able to be positioned anywhere within the chap – so can be placed exactly where they are needed. FIND OUT MORE

Whether you believe in magnets or not, there is something mysterious about the effect it can have on the body. And while cold, hard scientific proof is difficult to find, we do know some truths and have definitely witnessed some positive results when it comes to keeping horses legs and backs in top condition. Here are 5 things you might not have known about magnets. 1) They are suitable for all horses. Magnets can be used on all horses and ponies to maintain healthy muscles, joints, tendons and ligaments. It’s great to help horses that are working hard, feel the cold, or maybe those who are being brought back into work and are recruiting muscles that haven’t been used for a while. 2) Let them do their work overnight.  Using magnets doesn’t have to cause an inconvenience to your routine or require extra time. While some other products can only be used for a limited amount of time, our Magnetic Range is designed to fit into your schedule – so you can leave them on overnight and use them everyday. In an ideal world, magnets should be used for at least 4 hours if possible – making an overnight solution super convenient, especially when we all know time can be short on the yard, particularly during winter! 3) Neodynium, Ceramic, Rubber – not all magnets are the same. There are lots of different types of magnets made up of various components, and the type of magnet can also determine the strength. You can be blinded by science but apart from strength, there are a few other things to consider – such as weight, flexibility, how they are being applied, and as they have a local or targeted effect, are the magnets where you need them to be? Our Magnetic Range use unique magnets which can be moved to exactly where YOU need them. 4) Just because a magnet sticks to metal doesn’t mean it will produce an effect. Every magnet will have a gauss surface strength. This is what makes it stick to a metal surface,  i.e. a fridge magnet sticking to a fridge. It is important to understand however, that this surface measurement is not necessarily representative of its effect on your horse. 5) Magnets don’t wear out. Magnets used in most magnetic products are called Static Magnets – where they have been ‘charged’ and then hold that charge for the remainder of their days. This means their magnetic field will remain constant and the results should not diminish over time, with proper care of course! Overall, magnets have been seen to have positive effects in horses for both maintaining health and performance. And while there are different types of magnets, choose one to fit into your routine, that’s comfortable for your horse to wear and above all, effective!

We have compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions on our Magnetic Range below. If you would like your question answered, please email info@equilibriumproducts.com and we will post it here with our answer. Magnetic FAQ: How do the magnets work? A magnet has two poles, North and South. Opposite poles attract and conversely like poles repel. When a magnet is placed on the body, the magnetic properties in the body’s cells will either attract those that are opposite or repel those that are alike. In this way the activity of the cells is increased. Can I start using the magnetic products on my horse straight away? Yes. It is extremely rare for a horse to have an adverse reaction to our magnets. As with all new products, you may like to try the products on your horse for a short time initially while you’re nearby to check for fit. When should I not use magnetic products on my horse? Do not apply magnets on open wounds, bruises, infection, areas of inflammations or for the first 5 days following steroid injections. It is not advisable to use magnets on a horse with a heart murmur or in the first trimester of pregnancy for you or your horse! Note: People with heart pacemakers should not carry magnetic products. What are the benefits of the Magnetic Chaps? The Magnetic Chaps can be worn to support mobility, aid joint function and maintain healthy tendons. Magnets can help maintain blood circulation for a horse stood at rest. How long will the magnets last? The magnets will not become less efficient over time. Can I wash the magnets? The magnets themselves CANNOT be washed. The Magnetic Chaps can be washed on a cool wash with a non-biological detergent. The magnets should be removed from the protective pockets prior to washing to avoid accidental damage to the washing machine and the magnets. How should the products be stored when not in use? Store in a dry place away from extreme temperatures. For example, avoid storing the magnets in a very cold place such as a tack room during winter, as the magnets may lose their flexibility. Can the Magnetic Chaps be worn for turnout? The Magnetic Chaps should only be worn in the stable and not worn for turnout as the Chaps are not designed for outdoor use. Magnets work best when the horse is at rest. Can I use Magnetic Chaps when my horse has mud fever? We advise waiting until your horses’ mud fever has cleared up before using Magnetic Chaps. This is because magnets should not be used on open wounds or if there is any risk of infection. Can I put the Magnetic Chaps on wet legs? For comfort reasons, we would recommend towel drying horses’ legs thoroughly before putting the Magnetic Chaps on. Can I purchase replacement magnets? Yes, replacement magnets can be purchased here.

We are dedicated to creating carefully designed products that improve the wellbeing of the horse.  All of our products are thoroughly researched, tested and quality checked. The Equilibrium Massage Pad has been independently tested by Myerscough College in Lancashire. The results, following 4 weeks of testing, show that the massage pad offers significant benefits to working horses, improving back flexibility, promoting relaxation and that it could help to increase stride length. There were two parts to the study: 1) The horses were measured for signs of stress / relaxation immediately before, during and after the application of the massage pads over a six week period 2) The horses were assessed in terms of flexibility and suppleness. There were two groups of horses – a treated group and a control group. Test Methods Back flexibility was assessed using the ‘Arch Dip Test’.  The Arch & Dip test is a reliable and proven indicator of back flexibility (Pelham & Schobesberger 2006). It involves the use of pressure stimulus to generate a reflex in the horses’ back. Pressure applied to a specific region in the spinal area results in the horse ‘dipping’ away from the pressure, with a more flexible back allowing the horse to exhibit a greater ability to dip away from the source of the pressure. The arch test involves the application of pressure to the horses’ midline, in order to stimulate an upwards arch reflex in the horses’ back away from the source of pressure. Similarly, a more flexible back allows the horse to exhibit a greater ability to arch the back upwards away from the source of the pressure. As a measure of relaxation, the horses also had their heart rates monitored. Results Reducing Stiffness Test results demonstrated an overall improvement in back flexibility of approx. 46%. Stride Length The trial showed that the stride length of the horses who wore the Massage Pad which was turned on increased over the test period by 12cms, whereas the control group showed little improvement. Horse owners know that a small change in stride length can make a major difference to the way of going in the horse. Promoting Relaxation Using a heart rate monitor, horses wearing the Equilibrium Massage Pad had a consistently lower heart rate than those in the control group. Conclusion The results after 6 weeks of testing indicate that 1) the horses appeared more relaxed and 2) the performance of the horse would be expected to improve due to the increased flexibility of the horses’ back muscles. Relaxed muscles will assist with flexibility and movement in particular for competition horses performing dressage movements and jumping technical fences.

Animal physiotherapy including Massage and Magnetic has become popular for the maintenance of the musculoskeletal system in recent years. Massage, essentially the manipulation of soft tissues, has been noted to aid the prevention of injury, recovery from fatigue, relaxation and increasing mobility. (Hemmings, 2001). Performance depends on freedom of movement, full flexibility and an absence of musculoskeletal pain, all of which can improve with massage (Gellman, 1998). Traditionally massage methods have been manual but with recent advances in technology, electrical modalities have been introduced. The Benefits of Massage Massage has been shown to improve flexibility and promote relaxation in horses. Tension is often one of the most common reasons for poor performance in horses and by increasing relaxation and improving back flexibility; the negative effects of tension can be reduced. Like us, most horses can benefit from a massage session but maintaining a healthy back through massage can help prevent performance inhibitors such as stiffness, hollowness, shortened stride length, or in more serious cases napping, bucking and rearing. Massage stimulates blood flow to the area treated and has a similar effect to the tissue as heat does ie. promoting vasodilatation. Vasodilatation increases blood flow; bringing with it increased oxygen and nutrient supply to the muscle and after exercise this can help with the removal of toxins such as lactic acid. When to use Massage For horses on box rest to promote blood flow After exercise to help with toxin removal Before exercise as part of warm up At a show to help recover from travelling On your horses day off as part of a maintenance programme Anytime as a reward  

Headshaking doesn’t mean an end to riding. Nose nets and other facial coverings have played a large part in returning many head shakers to normal function. They remain the most successful, preventative, home treatment for headshaking. A recent trial showed the use of nose nets halved the severity of headshaking symptoms in 50% of the horses studied with some improvement in symptoms seen in up to 80% of sufferers. In addition, our research has shown that nose nets do not appear to work by actively filtering out pollen particles and stop them from being inhaled – the holes are just too big! Instead, it is thought that they may work by distorting the airflow to the nose and their presence may distract or comfort the horse. British Dressage and British Eventing have now accepted the use of nose nets in competition. Face and ear nets can also be effective in alleviating headshaking which may suggest that for some horses there is a different cause or that these nets also have a distracting or protective role. Alleviating headshaking Creating a good relationship with your vet and trusting their judgement is an essential start to managing headshaking.  Drugs are available such as commonly used cyproheptadine and carbamazepine. Surgical techniques can be used to cut faulty nerves that are thought to cause headshaking. The success of these methods is variable but is increasing as we learn more about the condition. Keeping a diary of headshaking attacks may help you to identify potential triggers or times when the headshaking is worse. As a rule, preventing an attack is better than attempting to ride the horse through one. Remember, most head shakers are suffering from an underlying clinical problem that causes the headshaking. Some owners report improvements when their horses are stabled during the day and turned out at night in the summer. In addition, wetting hay reduces the possibility of any respiratory complications. A recent report concluded that acupuncture is unlikely to be of benefit in the majority of cases. With careful management, the outlook for many head shakers is bright and a happy and rewarding relationship can still be maintained.  Although it seems that in terms of potential causes we’re doing more ruling out than ruling in research is progressing and the future is promising.

Headshaking explained Maybe you’re just getting to grips with a new mount this spring or you’re bringing on your youngster.  Imagine your horror when you find your horse starts headshaking. Your dreams of being able to compete or even hack safely begin to crumble around you.   But don’t despair – headshaking need not mean the end to your horse’s riding career.  New research is helping vets and owners to better understand this condition and give practical solutions for managing the problem. What is headshaking? Nowadays it seems that everyone knows someone with a head shaker.  But what is a ‘head shaker’ and what distinguishes them from a horse with a short-term irritation or behavioural problem? Most horses shake their heads from time to time to get rid of flies or when frustrated. Horses that simply nod their heads when stabled or as they turn home from a ride, may not be head shakers but ‘nodders’, a condition that is responsive  to changes in management. ‘Nodders’ do not usually cause great problems to themselves or their owner. True head shakers do so persistently and for no apparent reason. They exhibit sharp, jerky vertical and horizontal head movements.  The severity of the movements can vary from small flicks to huge, sweeping arcs which threaten to hit the rider on the nose or unseat them. Experts now recognise that head shakers also exhibit symptoms that suggest the horse is suffering from irritation within or around the face and muzzle.  Head shakers that also snort excessively during an attack will try to rub their face or act as if a bee has gone up their nose. They may even run their nose along the ground or strike the ground during the attack.  Moreover the unpredictability of the length and occurrence of these attacks can severely limit a rider’s ability to compete or even ride safely. By Dr Katy Taylor De Montfort University

An introduction to Laminitis What is laminitis? Equine laminitis is a painful condition of the feet affecting horses and ponies. It is the most common cause of lameness in the UK. The lameness ranges from being barely noticeable to severe. Laminitis involves inflammation in the sensitive tissues of the foot (laminae). These tissues connect the lowest bone within the hoof (pedal bone) to the hoof wall. As the condition develops, this connection starts to weaken, causing the pedal bone to rotate and point towards the sole (sinking). There are two types of laminitis: acute and chronic. Acute laminitis Early stages of the condition Considered a vet emergency Clinical signs present but pedal bone hasn’t moved Can be treated to prevent it becoming chronic Chronic laminitis Later stages of the condition Pedal bone has moved within the hoof Ongoing foot problems are more likely such as lameness and foot abscesses What causes laminitis? Laminitis arises when the blood flow to the foot is interrupted. This results in certain areas not receiving sufficient blood but blood carries oxygen and vital nutrients. Therefore, cells in the foot become damaged which causes inflammation and pain. Laminitis is a complex condition with several possible causes. About 90% of laminitis cases are caused by underlying hormonal (endocrine) disease ‐ mainly Cushing’s Disease and equine metabolic syndrome (EMS). The remaining 10% may be caused by: carbohydrate overload eg if your horse gets into the feed-room; toxaemia, due to toxins released by bacteria during some illnesses such as colic, diarrhoea, liver or respiratory disease, or from a retained placenta after foaling; concussion, perhaps due to working on hard surfaces; excessive weight bearing, when lameness in one limb causes the horse to carry too much weight on other limbs. What are the clinical signs of laminitis? Laminitis can affect all four feet, but most commonly affects the front. The typical stance is with the affected horse standing with his hind-legs well underneath his body and leaning back to take weight of his front toes. He may also have hot feet with a strong (digital) pulse felt at the back of his fetlock. Other possible indicators are: signs of pain such as reluctance to move, facial tension, and a lack of interest in his surroundings; general stiffness; or weight shifting while at rest. He may also have a ‘pottery’ walk caused by placing the heel down before the toe, or lameness that is exaggerated on a hard surface. How can I prevent laminitis? Laminitis may be prevented by ensuring your horse is of correct weight and body condition score. Feed him an appropriate diet with sufficient exercise to prevent weight increases. Latest research suggests avoiding diets containing too much sugar (including molasses) which affects insulin levels. Monitor for underlying metabolic conditions and causes of laminitis, such as Cushing’s Disease and EMS. For horses with a past history of laminitis, it is essential that you follow the advice from your vet, farrier and nutritionist to manage your horse effectively. How is laminitis treated? There is no cure for laminitis, but early treatment and management will improve the chances of recovery. Your vet should be called early on in all cases of laminitis. Box rest is necessary to minimise movement and prevent further damage until your horse becomes sound. Pain‐relieving medication can be administered, such as phenylbutazone (bute). X‐rays will check for pedal bone movement and daily monitoring of foot temperature and digital pulse is advisable. Feet may be trimmed appropriately or shod with special shoes to alleviate pressure and prevent further damage. Try to eliminate recurrence of laminitis by reducing grass intake and feeding an appropriate diet, read more about feeding the laminitis prone horse. Did you know? Restricting access to fresh grass can have a negative impact on the level of vitamin C in horse's systems as they use grass to generate vitamin C. Supplementing vitamin C in the diet is therefore beneficial for horses and ponies on a restricted grass diet. What is the prognosis of laminitis? Horses can recover from episodes of acute laminitis and, if treated promptly and effectively, chronic laminitis can be avoided. It is essential to act quickly and work alongside your vet, farrier and nutritionist to improve the prognosis. Hoof damage may cause ongoing problems which need to be managed accordingly. Horses that have suffered one attack of laminitis are more susceptible to suffering laminitis in the future, so careful monitoring and good management is key. With a timely diagnosis, prompt and appropriate treatment, and effective management, it is possible for horses to return to their former use and have a good quality of life. Thank you to vet, Rachel Harrison-Osborne of Wendover Heights Veterinary Centre, for her input to this article. Helpful resources https://www.laminitisclinic.org https://www.talkaboutlaminitis.co.uk https://www.laminitis.org/laminitis.htm https://www.thelaminitissite.org/laminitis.htm https://www.bhs.org.uk/welfare

Why are tendons important? Tendons are important for transmitting forces from muscle to bone. The equine flexor tendons are important for supporting the fetlock joint during standing and locomotion, and for energy efficient movement, but at peak performance the digital flexor tendons are operating close to failure strains. Why does injury occur? Because of this balance between efficiency and failure, tendon injury frequently occurs as the result of repetitive overloading. There may be increased likelihood of tendon injury if there is underlying tendon degeneration - related to increasing age and/or cumulative exercise. Rest, however, is not necessarily a good thing - a 4-6 week period of box rest has been reported to lead to a deterioration in tendon strength. Generally subtle damage tends to occur before severe damage or rupture and the middle (core) part of the tendon is more likely to be affected than the edges. When severe damage occurs, there is cycle of inflammation and then repair. However, the repaired tendon is less elastic than original tendon so reinjury is frequent, either to the repaired tendon or the interface between the normal and repaired tendon. Flexor tendon injury is more likely with greater loads, so increased weight of horse and rider, greater height of fences and faster speeds will potentially increase the risk of injury. The more times the tendon is stretched near its limit can also increase the risk of injury, for example by increased number of fences or distance galloped. In general, jumping appears to be associated with deep digital flexor tendon injury in the pastern and foot, and jumping from a high height or jumping at speed are associated with superficial digital flexor tendon injury. As the muscles become tired, uncoordinated movement can result in excessive forces on a tendon. Foot conformation can also influence tendon loading so foot balance is important in both prevention and management of injuries. Although repetitive overloading is probably the most likely reason for tendon injury, damage to tendons can also occur as a result of direct trauma. Laceration of the entire tendon will stop the continuity between muscle and bone. For a digital extensor tendon, this is rarely a major problem, unless a tendon sheath becomes infected. However, for the digital flexor tendons, a loss of support for the palmar aspect of the distal limb is potentially extremely serious. The involvement of a tendon sheath can also affect the prognosis. Signs of tendon damage For a complete rupture or laceration of the deep digital flexor tendon, the toe of the foot becomes raised from the floor as the pedal bone loses support from the tendon. If there is complete laceration or rupture of the superficial digital flexor tendon, there is reduced support for the fetlock joint, which may appear to drop. However, in most cases, there is not complete laceration or rupture, so the signs of damage can be less obvious. Swelling, heat and pain on pressure over the affected tendon are the most likely signs of damage, although for tendons within the carpal canal the horse may resent flexion of the knee, and for tendons within the digital flexor tendon sheath (behind the fetlock joint) the horse may resent flexion of the fetlock. When there is injury to the deep digital flexor tendon within the foot or pastern, the horses usually shows signs of foot pain. Diagnosis of tendon injury Nerve blocks may be used to locate the site of damage. Injuries to the superficial and deep digital flexor tendons above the pastern are most frequently diagnosed using ultrasonography (ultrasound examination). For tendons within a sheath, tenoscopy (keyhole surgery) can often be useful to see the surface of the tendon. For injuries to the deep digital flexor tendon within the foot or pastern, pain is often improved by nerve blocks to the foot, and in the past would have been confused with 'navicular disease'. Deep digital flexor tendon injury can occur either in conjunction with or in the absence of navicular bone abnormalities. Tendon injury may also be found in conjunction with damage to ligaments within the foot such as the impair ligament or collateral ligaments of the coffin joint. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the best method for diagnosing tendon or ligament damage within the foot, and has shown the importance of both tendon and ligament damage within the foot. As MRI is increasingly being used in veterinary practice, it is now possible to diagnose tendon and ligament problems that could not previously have been diagnosed, ensuring that affected horses are treated in the optimal way. A horse with complete laceration of the deep digital flexor tendon after becoming entangled in wire - resulting in the toe being lifted off the floor. MRI of a horse with damage to the deep digital flexor tendon (arrow) just above the navicular bone. On this MRI picture, it is possible to see the details of the tendons, bone, articular cartilage and other structures within the foot that are not possible to see using other types of imaging. Rachel C Murray MA VetMB MS PhD Diplomate ACVS MRCVS Many thanks to the Animal Health Trust for this article and images