Would you know if your horse has got
Hind Suspensory Damage??
By Alison Short
Would you know if your horse has got
With dressage on the increase and more people having all weather arenas and equestrian facilities at home, horses are working more frequently on synthetic surfaces than they were twenty years ago. Coupling this with our ever increasing expectations, could this be one of the key factors in understanding why hind suspensory lameness is prevalent in the world of dressage?
One of the biggest problems is detecting hind suspensory lameness in the early stages and being aware of the warning signs. Often if damage has been caused through training both hind suspensories can be affected, thus shortening the length of both hind steps which results in a lack of freedom and swing behind the saddle, at this point back pain can be present and often thought of as the problem rather than the symptom.
Your horse may be noticeably freer one side than the other and when riding a figure of eight may show shorter tighter steps in one direction dropping a hip, which can also cause your saddle to slip out to one side. You will also notice a pattern forming, if you meet resistance and lack of power in right trot you will also have problems with the left canter, the weakness being the right hind leg attempting to carry the weight, crookedness will often be present when attempting straight lines.
When riding lateral work a lack of willingness to step through on one rein may be noticeable, creating resistance to go forward and a loss of rhythm.
“A more advanced horse that has been progressing to collection can begin to take more weight in the rein to avoid engagement.”
Conformation
A horse with less than perfect conformation which shows an aptitude to work willingly through the grades will still have an increased risk of injury.
“You don't expect to go off road twice a week in a Fiesta without something falling off!”
Preventative measures
Over collection for prolonged periods of time are tiring and a loss of rhythm through collected or lateral work can be a warning sign of discomfort.
Build on achieving relaxation with swing through the back into a comfortable elastic rhythm, returning to basics at any sign of resistance.
“School to create better foundations, not 10% more next week!”
As a rider, develop a supple seat and body to prevent your horse from bracing, and so creating less physical strain on his lower joints to help him develop towards collection.
Minimise your tight circle and lunge work.
What surface should you be riding on? Springy turf is the ultimate feel, soft enough to be cutting through the top 3cm's to a firm but not solid foundation. Sand can be the most punishing, being bottomless when dry and so lacking consistency under foot, watering liberally once level can help.
Over compaction of a surface causes concussion and lacks absorption, disrupting the compaction up to 3cm's will help.
“Working in the top 3cm's is the ideal”
Waxed surfaces are popular but can be expensive, by preparing your existing school and applying either high grade rubber or wood bark may minimise injury.
