Effects of athletic conditioning on horses with degenerative suspensory ligament desmitis: A preliminary report
2011
Xie, Lin | Spencer, Nakia D. | Beadle, Ralph E. | Gaschen, Lorrie | Buchert, Mark R. | Lopez, Mandi J.
Equine degenerative suspensory ligament desmitis (DSLD) is a debilitating condition that has limited response to rest and stall confinement. This study was designed to test the hypothesis that mild to moderate DSLD is not worsened by consistent exercise. Paso Fino and Peruvian Paso horses (two normal horses and four horses with DSLD) were exercised for 30min every other day for 8weeks and then pasture rested for 4months. Gait analysis, radiographs, ultrasound and serum insulin and glucose concentrations were performed prior to the exercise trial and at each time point. Vertical impulse increased after 8weeks of exercise and 4months of pasture rest in DSLD-affected horses. Suspensory ligament fiber pattern subjectively improved with exercise in affected horses. Insulin levels significantly decreased from baseline in all horses after 4 and 8weeks of exercise. Exercise did not seem to exacerbate and may have improved signs of DSLD in mild to moderate cases.
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