Real Rider Resource
Suspensory Pain & Swelling In Horses
The suspensory ligament is a key stabilizer. When it gets irritated or overloaded, horses often show swelling, heat, stumbling, or that “dropping behind” feeling. This guide helps you spot trouble early.
What Riders Notice First
- Mild swelling along the inside or outside of the cannon bone
- Heat or sensitivity to touch
- Toe-dragging or uneven hind-end push
- Stumbling or “dipping” behind
Suspensory issues often start subtle. Early detection makes a massive difference in recovery time.
Common Causes
- Overload from tight turns, speed, or deep footing
- Soft-tissue strain or micro-tears
- Proximal suspensory desmitis (upper suspensory inflammation)
- Trauma or interference hits
- Degenerative suspensory disease in older horses
Quick Rider Checks
- Is the swelling warm or cool
- Is your horse short-striding or tripping
- Does pressure cause tenderness
- Does swelling improve or worsen in 24 hours
- Any dropping behind or refusal to load the limb
How Draw It Out® Fits In
Riders support suspensory soft tissue with Draw It Out® 16oz Gel for targeted comfort, RTU Spray for full limb coverage after work, CryoSpray when cooling is appropriate, and MasterMudd™ EquiBrace for deeper soft-tissue areas under vet guidance.
Need the full suspensory guide Get detailed cause breakdowns, care routines, and urgent red-flag lists.
