Dr Charlie El-Hage from the University of Melbourne, has recently written a comprehensive review article on stringhalt. The paper has subsequently been published in Equine Veterinary Education, the official journal of The American Association of Equine Practitioners.

We present a summary of this work here.

Often as painful as it is unsightly and difficult to manage, the key to preventing Greasy Heel/Mud Fever is understanding the underlying risk factors. Most cases are characterised by disruption to the healthy skin barrier, excessive moisture and opportunistic infection. 

The key to treating this condition involves employing a multi-pronged 10 Step Treatment Plan.

Manuka honey, which is produced in New Zealand by bees that pollinate the native manuka myrtle (Leptospermum scoparium) has been found to have a valuable role to play in the treatment of equine wounds.

Recognition of changes in facial expression could potentially enable those working with horses to recognise pain earlier.

Excessive grain intake, intermittent access to water and intermittent fasting are all associated with increased risk of equine gastric ulcer syndrome. 

Maintaining short toes and appropriate heel toe alignment is important for protecting lower limb structures and also has the added benefit of improving gait quality.

Training a horse for competition involves a combination of conditioning and schooling. Schooling develops neuromuscular coordination and discipline, whereas conditioning induces physiological and structural adaptations that maximise fitness and even more importantly, help maintain soundness.  Strength training in horses is a crucial part of training the equine athlete for any discipline. 

A well constructed and maintained arena surface should last up to 20 years.

Modification to saddle panel design can result in improved pressure distribution and a greater range of motion of the horses spine.

Saddle-fit needs to be checked on a frequent basis to ensure optimal performance.

This study found that using a double bridle designed to avoid locations of maximum pressure led to lower maximum pressure under the noseband and headpiece compared with a horse's usual bridle and was associated with improved gait quality at the trot.

Helen Fletcher from Equipoise Pilates has put together a series of exercises to help you attain that beautiful upper body position so elegantly demonstrated by elite riders. Of course it is not just about looking good it is all about effective riding!

Exactly how do the professionals ride so well...