Horse bursitis is a painful inflammation of the bursa, often caused by overuse or trauma. This condition can lead to swelling, stiffness, and lameness. In this blog post, you'll read about the causes, symptoms, and effective treatment methods, including rest, anti-inflammatories, and complementary therapies like red light therapy. Everything to give your horse the most comfortable life possible!
What is bursitis in horses?
Bursitis, also called bursitis, is an inflammation of the bursa. The bursa is a fluid-filled sac located between the tendons, muscles, and bones. It serves as a cushion to reduce friction during movement. If the bursa becomes inflamed, it can lead to pain, swelling, and reduced mobility. In that case, the horse suffers from bursitis.
How can bursitis develop?
Bursitis in horses can develop in various ways. The following can be causes of this bursitis:
Overload or excessive pressure on a certain area, for example due to a harness that does not fit properly;
Trauma or injury;
Infections, although this is less common.
Where can a horse suffer from bursitis?
Bursitis, or inflammation of the bursa, can occur in various locations in horses. There are several forms of this condition:
Schiefel: an inflammation of the bursa near the ankle joint;
Hygroma: This is also called elbow point bursitis, which is often caused by lying on a hard surface for a long time.
Treatment often consists of rest, anti-inflammatories, and in some cases, drainage or even surgery may be necessary if an infection is present. Red light therapy is also frequently used in horses these days. We'll discuss these treatments in more detail later in this article.
How do you know if your horse has bursitis?
There are several signs you can use to recognize bursitis in your horse. Each horse can present with symptoms differently, but below are some common symptoms.
1. Swelling
Often there is a clearly visible or palpable bump or thickening at the site of the bursitis, such as in the knees, heels or shoulders.
2. Pain to touch
The horse may react sensitively or even aggressively when you touch the inflamed area. A horse sometimes clearly shows pain, so the signals may be somewhat vaguer.
3. Stiffness or lameness
The horse may have difficulty moving, be stiff, or limp. This often occurs when moving after resting.
4. Heat
The inflamed area may feel warmer than normal. This is a normal inflammatory response. It is often accompanied by swelling.
5. Reduced movement
The horse may be more reluctant to move, less energetic or reluctant to make a certain movement.
6. Change in posture or gait
A horse may change its posture to avoid pain. You can often notice this in the horse's gait, especially if it's different from normal.
7. Irregular use of the leg
If the bursitis is in the leg, the horse will have less use of its leg. It may also start dragging its leg or become reluctant to get up.
It's always important to consult a veterinarian if you notice these signs. Only a veterinarian can provide an official diagnosis and develop a treatment plan.
How do you treat bursitis in horses?
Horse bursitis is easily treated. There are several treatment methods for bursitis, including traditional and complementary therapies such as red light therapy. Below, you'll find treatment options.
Rest and limited movement
It's important that the horse gets enough rest. This allows the inflammation to subside more quickly. Too much exercise can actually worsen the condition. In some cases, the horse may be allowed controlled exercise to maintain mobility.
Anti-inflammatories
The vet may prescribe anti-inflammatories and other medications, often to reduce inflammation and pain. The vet may also administer corticosteroid injections.
Cooling and heat therapy
In the initial stages of inflammation, ice or cold compresses can help reduce the inflammation. Once the acute inflammation has subsided, heat can help improve blood circulation.
Red light therapy
Red light therapy is increasingly used today to treat bursitis in horses. This form of light therapy stimulates cellular activity, improves blood flow, and can thus relieve pain and accelerate the recovery process. It can also be used as a complementary treatment method. For example, the PowerCure laser is a good tool for treating horses.
Drainage or surgical interventions
In severe cases, drainage or surgery may be necessary. Excessive fluid retention often occurs, requiring surgical removal or treatment.
Adjustment of gear and environment
Sometimes bursitis is caused by external pressure, such as poorly fitting tack or lying on a hard surface. Therefore, it's important to address the cause. Provide well-fitting tack and a soft surface where the horse can lie comfortably. This helps with both recovery and prevention of bursitis.
Combining these treatments, depending on the severity of the bursitis, can ensure optimal recovery. Red light therapy, for example, can also be used alongside anti-inflammatory medications and rest to accelerate the healing process.
Bursitis in horses and low-level laser therapy
Low-level laser therapy can be a valuable tool for your horse. It's increasingly used as a (supplemental) treatment for bursitis and other equine complaints. It can offer several benefits in treating the knee, including pain relief, reduced inflammation, and promoting healing. Here are some ways laser therapy can help your horse:
Pain relief through the release of endorphins;
Anti-inflammatory effect;
Improved blood circulation resulting in better supply of nutrients and oxygen;
Stimulation of cell regeneration, which ensures a faster healing process.
Laser therapy for horses can also be used as a complement to other treatments. This can ensure a faster healing process and pain relief for your beloved animal.
Red light therapy and science
The use of low-level laser therapy, also known as red light therapy, has been scientifically proven. This therapy uses laser devices with a specific frequency of low-power light energy. This light interacts with the tissues in your body, reducing pain, swelling, inflammation, and various conditions. This therapy can be used on both humans and animals.
What can PowerCure do for your horse?
The PowerCure laser has already helped many horses reduce pain, complaints, and conditions. We've also helped several horses with bursitis.
Experiences
You can purchase the PowerCure (Pro) laser for home use. This way, your horse doesn't have to leave the stable for this treatment. And it's not just a handy tool for your horse. You can use the laser yourself, too, for virtually any ailment you have. It's a handy device for everyone in your household!
Want to learn more about the PowerCure (Pro) laser and how it can help your horse? Then take a look here.
Shop the PowerCure laser here