Sesamoiditis
Sesamoiditis describes inflammation within the sesamoid
bones at the back of the fetlock joint. The sesamoid bones
have a similar action to the navicular bone. They act
as 'pulleys' for the suspensory ligament as it passes
over the back of the fetlock joint.
Sesamoiditis is most common in performance horses where
high loading and over flexion of the fetlock joint results
in tearing of the sesamoid ligaments and internal bone
stress leading to sesamoiditis. Overweight horses and
those with long pasterns and low heels also appear to
be more prone to development of inflamed sesamoids.
Sesamoiditis results as faulty blood flow is aggravated
by concussion, combined with extreme sensory pull, and
tearing of ligament attachments, which result in the characteristic
pain, swelling and demineralisation of bone.
Can Equissage help?
Yes.
In general terms, problems associated with the sesamoids
are known to be particularly difficult to treat due to
the nature of the joint structure, the mechanisms of the
surrounding apparatus and how they work together. Vets
have varying opinions as to the success of treatment but
for any treatment to have any chance of being successful
the horse has to be confined, with the joint being supported
so that tension is eased on the fetlock. Often at least
6-8 months convalescence is required before a horse can
be returned to full work with the prognosis for each varying
greatly, this depending on the initial severity of the
injury and whether the surrounding ligament are also affected.
Nature sends additional supplies to the area to aid the
healing process (which causes the heat and inflammation
in the first place as the blood vessels dilate) and whilst
these extra supplies contain vital healing nutrients,
so much is not needed all at the same time. There is also
swelling as blood vessels become leaky with fluid passing
into surrounding tissue; in turn the nerves are then affected
by the swelling tissue making this an extremely painful
condition. So the aim of treatment is to reduce the inflammation
[in the sesamoid bones and fetlock joint] - something
that is the primary function Equissage by virtue of its
ability to aid drainage and circulation.
As the horse will be on NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory
drugs), then Equissage can readily assist in the more
rapid removal of the toxins consequent upon their use.
As in all instances where an injury necessitates box
rest, then Equissage comes into its own at guarding against
problems secondary to the initial condition setting in
such as stiffness, filled legs, and so on. The horse will
naturally put more weight onto the opposite front leg
so it is quite possible that consequential lower limb
swelling will occur due to the additional loading especially
as a result of the confinement.
Application:
Use the Pad twice daily on a lower to medium setting
(No.2-No.4) for as long as the horse is on box rest. If
the horse is particularly prone to stiffness of the back
and hamstrings, then targeted use with the Hand Unit is
recommended in these areas (5-10 minutes daily). The Hand
Unit can also be used around the injured fetlock joint
but care should be taken as sesamoiditis is very painful
- use the rubber capped end so as to cushion the vibration.
The leg boot can readily be used on the opposing fore
leg should any signs of swelling become visible. Use on
a lower setting to stimulate lymph circulation.
For more information please call 0800 072 1180,
email us at info@equissage.co.uk
or request a FREE TRIAL
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