Exercise bandages, to use or not to use, what is your answer? :]

[QueenDee_]

After having Chalky diagnosed with a problem with his Suspensory Ligament, my instructor and Mum thought it would be worth while using exercise bandages on him for a few months while it healed, for the support. The vet then re-diagnosed him with laminitis, but I still think he did something to his leg as he is lame on his off fore the most, like when im schooling etc.

We also asked the vet if it would be worth while using the bandages when working, and she said they don't really do anything, and can cause more harm than good.

So I was just wondering, what are your experiences or views on exercise bandages? Any suggestions? I bought these bandages off ebay- http://www.equilibriumproducts.com/leg_protection/stretch_amp_flexreg_exercise_bandages/ bewfore he was re-diagnosed, so I was just wondering whether it is worth using them anyway or whether I should just send them back

Thanks in advance for any helpful comments

 

[abbieandfiona]

Maybe what your vet means if you put them on wrong i.e too tight or too loose they do damage and not what they are meant to do?

 

[QueenDee_]

She said that most people don't put them on wrong so they do more damage than good and even when put on correctly they offer minimal support.

I just thought they would offer some support/absorb impact?

 

[jack9]

i prefer boots...

i used bandages on the mare and did them to loose - so i got evils and she just planted herself and refused to move(thank god)!...

so be careful

 

[abbieandfiona]

If you know how to put them on right then you should be ok i use sport boots to protect my mares legs as she has bandages on at night and sometimes in field as well.

 

[Apercrumbie]

Well unless I was very confident that I could put them on correctly I personally would use boots as they are much easier to fit.

 

[MissSBird]

Why hassle yourself with bandages when a good pair of boots take half the time to put on, and do the job much much better?