Is Your Horse Suffering from Locking Stifles? Here’s What You Need to Know!
If you’ve ever seen your horse suddenly “freeze” with its hind leg stuck in a straight position, you might be dealing with a condition called locking stifles.
I worked with this horse remotely and the stifles stopped locking less than 20 minutes after I started working with him on physical and emotional trauma. to see the full post on facebook click here: https://fb.watch/tSLvQwkXaa/
Also known as Upward Fixation of the Patella (UFP), this common issue can leave your horse unable to move its leg properly.
What Causes It?
- Postural/conformational Problems: Horses with straighter hind legs are more prone.
- Muscle Weakness: Underdeveloped hindquarters can’t properly lift the patella.
- Young Horses: Growing horses are at higher risk due to immature muscles and ligaments.
- Inactivity: Horses that are out of shape may develop locking stifles due to muscle loss.
Thing is, alot of these things are associated with trauma also.
Symptoms:
- Hind leg stuck in a straight position
- Toe dragging while walking
- Difficulty moving after rest
What Can You Do?
1. **Book an appintment with PainLess Equestrian to address hidden trauma causing the locking stifle - see the video for moments from a locking stifle treatment - beginning, 20 minutes in when the patella unlocked and on the hour point.
2. Exercise! Strengthen those hindquarters with hill work, trotting poles, and consistent conditioning.
3. Weight Management: Keep your horse at a healthy weight to reduce joint strain.
Don’t Wait! Locking stifles can go from a minor inconvenience to a major issue if not addressed due to tcompensation patterne building within the body. This leads to a larger muscular imbalance to be corrected following full return of function of the patella. Early intervention and proper care can make all the difference. Your horse deserves to move freely and comfortably!
Share this blog to spread awareness and help other horse owners keep their equine friends in top shape!
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