Final answer:
Proximal suspensory desmitis (PSD) is a ligament injury in horses that causes pain, inflammation, and lameness. It affects the suspensory ligament near its origin on the cannon bone, with hind limbs being more frequently affected in sport horses. Diagnosis and treatments include clinical exams, imaging techniques, medication, therapy, and sometimes surgery.
Step-by-step explanation:
Proximal Suspensory Desmitis (PSD)
Proximal suspensory desmitis (PSD) is an injury to the suspensory ligament close to where it originates on the cannon bone. The condition is commonly seen in horses and can affect both hind and front limbs, although it is more typical in the hind limbs of sport horses. PSD is a type of ligament injury that causes pain and lameness, and it can be a significant cause of performance impairment in affected horses.
The suspensory ligament plays a critical role in supporting the horse's fetlock and preventing overextension. When PSD occurs, it leads to inflammation and degeneration of the ligament fibers, which in turn causes swelling, heat, and pain in the affected limb. The diagnosis of proximal suspensory desmitis involves a combination of clinical examination, lameness evaluation, and advanced imaging techniques such as ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Treatment for PSD varies depending on the severity of the condition but may include rest, anti-inflammatory medications, shockwave therapy, stem cell or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatments, and in severe cases, surgery may be considered. Rehabilitation programs following treatment are crucial for successful recovery and to minimize the risk of re-injury.