splints- advice and experiences

[Pharphar!]

My boy has developed a splint just below his right knee. Its not causeing him any discomfort atm but I wondered what people recommend for reducing them and any experiences please. Its first time I've ever had to deal with one so all experiences are very much welcomed, esp regarding reducing them.

Thanks!

 

[TheCurlyPony]

Hi

My ponio developed one a year ago he went lame with it for around 6 weeks. I brought him back into work and was fine. Some people say they can disappear in time, but not often. The size of the splint never changed, until I removed his shoes for other reasons, and I think it is getting smaller. My guess is it's because he doesn't have concusion from the shoes when ridden on the road, but who knows.

 

[Goldenstar]

At the moment the vets seem keen on shock wave therapy but IME I think it's a very expensive thing to do when cold hosing and rest will sort it in most cases I have had two recently who had the shock wave approach and I won't be doing it again unless the vet can think of a very good reason .

 

[BlackRider]

My vet gave me DMSO

 

[Erin]

My mare went in a cold water hydrotherapy spa when she threw a splint.

It went from this: http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hpho...756215635354_510990353_20241727_3695501_n.jpg

to this: http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hpho...771562610354_510990353_20431246_6807087_n.jpg

In just under 2 weeks.

 

[Pharphar!]

Thanks for replies, so seems cold hosing is best thing?

 

[Pharphar!]

bump!!

 

[be positive]

Agreeing with cold hosing, it will help reduce any inflammation around the splint. Light work only and try to keep to softer surfaces, or field rest, this rain will really help as softer ground when turned out should also reduce the concussion.

So you can be blammed for doing the rain dance

 

[Pharphar!]

Lol! Trust me I've not been! Bonus is so far he's pretty much sound on it and its not particularly hot. Fingers crossed it'll not bother him!