Phoenix Equine

Concussion injuries - what are they? 🐎

We are seeing the ground being very hard this summer so knowing the consequence of this is important - when the ground gets harder this adds more potential for injury as your horse’s tendons, ligaments, bones, muscles, joints & feet are under increased stress.

What does a concussion injury often look like?

The signs of injury can vary depending on severity but if you seen any of the below or are concerned please give us or your own vet a ring

🐎 Look for heat or swelling most likely around the fetlock or travelling up the leg
🐎 Swellings can be either hard or soft to touch - they may also be painful when touched or squeezed
🐎 Any sign of lameness or signs of being foot sore which can often be seen as a reluctance to move forwards or weight shifting
🐎 Shortening of strides or not tracking up properly
🐎 Refusing fences when jumping, this also includes rushing and flattening at fences

But how you can help avoid concussion injuries?

🐎 Avoid riding consistently on hard ground & repetitive road work
🐎 Avoid faster work on hard ground such as cantering and galloping
🐎 Avoid competing your horses on hard terrain - retiring from an event when the ground is not right is much better than an injured horse!
🐎 Regular farriery with a registered professional will help to keep the hoof healthy and the foot balance optimal
🐎 Your horses' conformation will play a role in their susceptibility to injury
🐎 Older horses can be more susceptible to injury - consider decreasing work level or sticking to soft but safe surfaces