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Equine Lymphangitis

Jul 26th, 2016

Equine lymphangitis is a condition that results in swelling of the leg and is thought to be due to a restriction in lymph flow, possibly due to a bacterial infection, and can cause inflammation of the lymphatic vessels. In most cases it can be difficult to establish the actual cause of the problem.

These vessels are thin-walled structures that rely on tiny valves to stop the backflow. At various points there are lymph nodes (glands), that help to filter waste and toxins from the lymph fluid that is passing through them. If the lymphatic system becomes blocked this can cause rapid and painful swelling of the affected area.

 Equine Lymphatic System

 

The lymph system is the body’s trash collector. When the lymph vessels become inflamed, they pump fluid back into the body. It is thought that the vessels get inflamed and the fluid they should be taking out sits in the tissues.

 

The majority of cases involve a hind limb or limbs, with apparent swelling from the hock or fetlock down, but occasionally the swelling may be as high as the stifle. In some cases, the lower portion of the affected limb may be two or three times its normal size.

Treatment: Horses are usually treated with antibiotics for the infection, bute and banamine (if needed) to ease pain and reduce swelling and sometimes diuretics to help flush toxins from the body.

Therapy: There's no one therapy treatment, some people advocate sweating the leg, cold hosing, hot and cold therapy, pressure bandages--all are used with limited success. Massage therapy has shown to have a positive effect on the lymphatic system.

Horses with lymphangitis are often unwilling to move around, but it is very important to keep the muscles moving and the blood flowing. Lymph fluid is squeezed through the body by muscle action, so it is important that they get as much exercise as the condition will allow to keep the lymphatic system working properly.

Vibration massage therapy can also be a good option to work the muscles that surround the lymph vessels, especially on a horse who is unwilling to move a lot due to discomfort from this condition. Cycloid vibration therapy is gentle and deep, it encourages lymphatic drainage and promotes healthy blood circulation, which can help treat  lymphangitis. Niagara Equissage is a leader in equine cycloid vibration therapy products.

Call your vet at the first sign of unusual limb swelling. When dealing with lymphangitis, early intervention is crucial and can help limit the damage. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


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