The suspensory ligament is critical for weight-bearing and stability. When it becomes strained or overloaded, horses show swelling, heat, dropping behind, or clear lameness. This guide helps you understand what those signs mean and how to respond safely.
Suspensory swelling often shows up between the splint bones or higher up near the hock. Heat, pain, or a dropping hind end point toward strain or injury. Some mild irritation resolves quickly; deeper lesions require imaging and rehab.
Suspensory issues often start subtly — early recognition makes recovery dramatically easier.
This plan is for horses with mild swelling, low sensitivity, and no clear lameness — always confirm with your veterinarian.
Suspensory injuries worsen with load. Reduce work immediately while monitoring swelling and sensitivity.
Use cold therapy early in the process if your veterinarian recommends it. Avoid overuse or excessive duration.
Comfort routines support ligaments through recovery and conditioning — one of the biggest helpers in long-term management.
Early signs include mild swelling along the cannon bone, heat in the suspensory branches, toe-dragging, stumbling, or a subtle “dropping” look behind.
Yes. Swelling around the suspensory should always be taken seriously, even if the horse is not obviously lame. Soft tissue responds poorly to continued stress.
Mild strains may improve in weeks; moderate to severe injuries often require months of controlled rehab. Imaging is the only way to know the true extent of injury.
No. Riding through suspensory pain causes rapid worsening and increases risk of tears. Stop work until your veterinarian evaluates the horse.
Draw It Out® products support soft tissue comfort and recovery. Riders use them along the suspensory body, around the branches, and across the hind limbs as part of a vet-approved routine.
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It stays on the legs longer and can be used on cuts and bumps
Appreciate that, Sandra! Our gel was made to stay put and do its job—whether it’s on legs after a hard ride or a few pesky bumps that need some care. Thanks for trusting Draw It Out® to keep your horse feeling their best.
