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Suspensory Ligament
Desmitis Treatment

Case Study 3

Suspensory Ligament Desmitis Treatment

Treatment of Degenerative Suspensory Ligament Desmitis (DSLD)

Patient Profile

Age: 12-year-old

Breed: Andalusian

Gender: Gelding

Injury: Degenerative Suspensory Ligament Desmitis (DSLD)

Date of Injury: 2020

Initial Management:
Conservative treatment focused on conditioning and strengthening the hindquarters. Shoeing adjustments were implemented, including the application of extended heel shoes in June 2024 to improve support and alignment.

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Diagnostic Update:
A follow-up ultrasound (see above) on 02.07.2024 revealed persistent pathology in the suspensory ligament branches, indicating progressive degeneration. In response, EqueStride injury support management was initiated on 22.07.2024.​

​​Biomechanical Assessment at Treatment Onset:
Fetlock hyperextension was measured using internal guidelines :

  • Left Hind (LH): –20° during walk

  • Right Hind (RH): –15° during walk

Clinical Observations Prior to EqueStride Injury Management:
The owner reported that the gelding consistently adopted a stance with his hind limbs placed forward and underneath his body, suggestive of compensatory behaviour due to suspensory discomfort.

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Visual reference taken on 22.07.2024 to track progress

Visual reference taken on 23.08.2024 to track progress

1 Month Post-EqueStride Injury Management:

Significant improvement in fetlock stability was observed following one month of Equestride support management.

 

Fetlock Hyperextension Measurements (at walk):

  • Left Hind (LH): –5°

  • Right Hind (RH): –10°

 

These values reflect a marked reduction in hyperextension compared to initial measurements, indicating a positive response to treatment and improved suspensory support.

8 Weeks Post-Equestride Injury Management

At the 8-weeks, the gelding continued to show encouraging progress with improved fetlock stability.

 

Fetlock Hyperextension Measurements (at walk):

  • Left Hind (LH): –5°

  • Right Hind (RH): –5°

 

These values reflect a notable improvement from baseline, indicating a positive and sustained response to the EqueStride rehabilitation device.

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Visual reference taken on

19.09.2024 to track progress

Rehabilitation Progress – October 2024

The owner reported a reduction in palpable swelling over the suspensory branches, with improved definition around the fetlock region.

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A follow-up ultrasound examination conducted on 23.10.2024 revealed a mild residual increase in the diameter of the left hind medial suspensory branch. However, echogenicity and structural integrity had significantly improved, with a well-organised fibre pattern at the branch insertion, indicating positive tissue remodeling.

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Ridden Work Initiation:
Ridden exercise commenced on 10.10.2024 using the EqueStride device, marking three months since the start of treatment.

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Rehabilitation Protocol:

  • Gradual increase in device wear time, reaching 8–9 hours per day at the highest support setting (Level 4).

  • Controlled turnout maintained in a small paddock throughout the rehabilitation period to minimize strain and support recovery.

EqueStride Equine Injury Management

Revolutionising the Rehabilitation of Tendon and Suspensory Ligament Injuries in Horses

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We are dedicated to assist with all inquiries related to equine tendon or lower limb injuries, offering customised solutions for specific issues. Reach out to us to discuss how we can support your needs.

Contact Us

Marysborough House,

Glanmire, Co. Cork,

T45 VX26, Ireland.

​

info@equestride.com

00 353 (0)86 8336677

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