Signalment: 11-year-old Selle Francaise mare.
Diagnostics and Exam Findings: Diagnosed with acute bilateral and biaxial desmitis/degeneration of all four hindlimb suspensory branches after clinical examination, diagnostic analgesia, ultrasonography and radiography.
Laser Treatment: Initially treated three times weekly using a desmitis/tendonitis setting delivering 6960 J over 9 minutes and 40 seconds at 12 W with continuous wave on each suspensory branch for 4 weeks. Continued laser sessions three times a week for a further 2 weeks, then reduced to twice weekly for another 4 weeks.
Other Treatment: Box rest with controlled hand walking for 5 minutes twice daily using supportive dressings and 1.5g of suxibuzone twice daily for 14 weeks, then once daily for 4 weeks.
Comments: There is no doubt that laser therapy has played an integral part in Gloria’s recovery, with ultrasonographical and clinical improvement only occurring after it was commenced. To date there has been no evidence of re-injury which is very encouraging.
