bursitis bij paarden wit paard rent in veld

You can recognize bursitis in horses by these 7 signs

Bursitis in horses 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 you will read about the causes, symptoms and effective treatment methods, including rest, anti-inflammatories and complementary therapies such as red light therapy. Anything 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. These serve as cushions to reduce friction during movement. If the bursa becomes inflamed, it can cause pain, swelling and reduced ability to move. In that case, the horse suffers from bursitis.

How can bursitis occur?

Bursitis in horses can occur in a variety of ways. The items listed below can be a cause of this bursitis:

  • Overuse or a lot of pressure on a particular area, due to a harness that does not fit properly, for example;
  • Trauma or an injury;
  • Infections, although this is less common.

Where can a horse suffer from bursitis?

Bursitis, or bursitis, can occur in a variety of places in horses. Consequently, there are different forms of this condition:

  • Schiffle: an inflammation of the bursa near the hock;
  • Hygroma: this is also called point of elbow bursitis, which is often caused by prolonged lying around a hard surface.

Treatment often consists of rest, anti-inflammatories, and in some cases drainage or even surgery may be necessary if infection is present. Nowadays, the use of red light therapy in horses. Later in this article we will discuss treatments in more detail.

bursitis in horses running in water

How do you know if your horse is suffering from bursitis?

There are several signs you can recognize bursitis in your horse. In every horse the symptoms may manifest themselves differently, but below you can read some common characteristics.

1. Swelling

    There is often a clearly visible or palpable bump or thickening at the site of bursitis, such as at the knees, heels or shoulders.

    2. Pain on touch

      The horse may react sensitively or even aggressively if you touch the inflamed area. A horse sometimes shows pain clearly, so the signals may be a little fainter.

      3. Stiffness or lameness

        The horse may have difficulty moving, be stiff or lame. This often occurs when moving after resting.

        4. Heat

          The inflamed area may feel warmer than normal. This is a normal inflammatory reaction. It is often accompanied by swelling.

          5. Reduced motion

            The horse may be more reluctant to move, less energetic or reluctant to make a particular movement.

            6. Change in attitude or gait

              A horse may be changing his or her posture to avoid pain. Often you can also notice this by the way the horse walks, especially if it is different from normal.

              7. Irregular use of the leg

                If bursitis is in the leg, the horse may use the leg less. The animal may also drag the leg or prefer not to get up.

                It is always important to consult a veterinarian if you notice these signs. Only the veterinarian can help with an official diagnosis and can provide a treatment plan.

                How do you treat bursitis in horses?

                Bursitis in horses is easily treatable. There are several treatment methods for bursitis. These include traditional as well as complementary therapies such as red light therapy. Below you can read about the treatment options.

                Rest and limited exercise

                It is important for the horse to get enough rest. In this way, the inflammation can subside more quickly. Too much exercise can actually make the condition worse. In some cases, the horse may be allowed controlled movement to maintain mobility.

                Anti-inflammatories

                The veterinarian may prescribe anti-inflammatories and possibly other medications. This is often with the goal of inhibiting inflammation and reducing pain. The veterinarian may also give injections of corticosteroids.

                Cooling and heat therapy

                In the initial phase of inflammation, ice or cold compresses can help reduce inflammation. Once the acute inflammation subsides, heat can help improve blood circulation.

                Red light therapy

                Nowadays, red light therapy is increasingly used in the treatment of bursitis in horses. This form of light therapy stimulates cellular activity, improves blood flow and thus can relieve pain and speed up the recovery process. This can also be used as a complementary treatment method. Thus, the PowerCure laser is a good tool for treating horses.

                Drainage or surgical procedures

                Severe cases may require drainage or surgery. Often there is then excessive fluid accumulation and it is necessary to remove or treat it with surgery.

                Adaptation of rig and environment

                Sometimes bursitis is caused by external pressure, such as an ill-fitting harness or lying on a hard surface. Therefore, it is important to address the cause. Provide a well-fitting harness and a soft surface where the horse can lie comfortably. This will help in both the 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-inflammatories and rest to speed up the healing process.

                Equine bursitis and low level laser therapy

                Low level laser therapy can be a good tool for your horse. It is increasingly used as a (complementary) treatment for bursitis or other complaints in horses. It can offer several benefits in treating the knee. For example, it can provide pain relief, anti-inflammation and promote the healing process. These are some of the ways laser therapy can help your horse:

                • Pain relief through the release of endorphins;
                • Anti-inflammatory effect;
                • Improved blood circulation allowing better supply of nutrients and oxygen;
                • Stimulation of cell regeneration, which accelerates the healing process.

                Equine laser therapy treatment can also be used as an adjunct to other treatments. In this way, it can provide a faster healing process and pain relief for your beloved pet.

                powercure laser benefits

                Is there science behind red light therapy?

                The use of low level laser therapy, also called red light therapy, is scientifically proven. This therapy uses laser devices with a special frequency of low-level laser light energy. This light creates interactions with the tissues in your body. This reduces pain, swelling, inflammation and various conditions. This therapy can be used in both humans and animals.

                What can PowerCure do for your horse?

                The PowerCure laser has already helped many horses reduce pain, complaints and conditions. For example, we have also been able to help several horses with bursitis.

                You can purchase the PowerCure (Pro) laser yourself for home use. That way, your horse doesn’t have to leave the barn for this treatment. And it’s not just a convenient tool for your horse. You can use the laser yourself, for virtually any complaint you have. This makes it a convenient device for everyone in your household!

                Want to learn more about the PowerCure (Pro) laser and what it can help your horse with? Then especially take a look here.