SUSPENSORY INFLAMMATION
Suspensory inflammation is most commonly seen in dressage horses and ponies.
The suspensory ligament runs down behind the cannon bone between the knee and the fetlock in the foreleg, and between the hock and the fetlock in the hind leg.
The function of the suspensory ligament is to support the fetlock joint during the weight-bearing phase of the stride.
The ligament can become inflamed in both the front and hind legs, and it can be damaged during uneven weight-bearing on uneven ground or weight bearing with a poorly balanced foot. It can also be damaged by attempting collection too quickly in horses who are not yet strong enough to do this.
Mild inflammation can be a warning sign for more serious injury. If it is discovered early enough and properly treated, the prognosis is very good.
