UNDERSTANDING WINDGALLS, PART 4

Avoiding the development of windgalls

There are three major ways to prevent your horse from developing windgalls. These are as follows:

• Ensure that your horse (particularly young or heavy horses) is not overworked and that any work is done on soft, even surfaces.
• Make sure that your horse is properly trimmed or shod.
• Treat any injuries to tendons, ligaments, and joint capsules as soon as they are noticed to avoid the development of windgalls secondary to these conditions.

Summary

Windgalls without lameness are the norm and are usually only a concern in terms of appearance. They commonly occur later in a horse’s life due to simple wear and tear and are generally not anything to worry about.

However, one cannot assume, that a new swelling in this area is always a windgall. Instead, the discovery of any new swelling should prompt a call to your vet as a matter of urgency. There are lots of delicate structures in this region that need prompt attention if damaged. Therefore, even if the swelling turns out to be ‘just a windgall’, it is worth getting your vet’s opinion promptly.