Example of Body Tension: DSLD and Its Ripple Effect on the Equine Body
Degenerative Suspensory Ligament Desmitis (DSLD) is a progressive condition that causes weakening of the suspensory ligament, leading to dropped fetlocks and significant structural changes in a horse’s posture and movement. As the body compensates for this instability, tension patterns develop, creating a chain reaction of muscular strain that extends far beyond the affected ligaments.
Tension Patterns and Their Impact
Fetlock Drop and Hamstring Tightness
As the fetlocks drop, the hamstrings become excessively tight in an attempt to stabilize the hind limbs.
This chronic tension pulls on the inner thigh muscles and groin area, affecting movement and leading to further discomfort and tension on the pelvis, SI and lower back from beneath.
Effects on the Pelvis, Sacroiliac (SI) Joint, and Lower Back
The hamstrings’ pull translates upward into the pelvis and SI joint, causing restriction in sacroiliac mobility and potential discomfort in the lower back.
The compensatory strain in these areas affects overall movement, often leading to an increased swayback posture or difficulty engaging the hind end properly.
Connection to the Longissimus Dorsi and Back Muscles
Since the hamstrings attach to the pelvis, their tightness influences the longissimus dorsi, one of the primary back muscles responsible for supporting the spine and carrying a rider.
When this muscle becomes overworked, stiffness and discomfort arise, further reducing flexibility and performance.
Impact on the Neck, Nuchal Ligament, and Poll
The longissimus dorsi connects directly to the nuchal ligament, which extends all the way into the atlas and poll.
As tension pulls upward, horses may develop stiffness or restricted movement in the neck, leading to difficulty flexing at the poll, bracing against rein contact, and overall discomfort in head carriage.
Tension in the Shoulder, Girth Line, and Thoracic Sling
As the back and neck muscles compensate, increased strain develops in the shoulders and thoracic sling—the system of muscles supporting the front end of the horse.
The tightening of the pectoral muscles and chest leads to restrictions in the forelimbs, reducing forward reach and stride length.
The girth line area often becomes tense as the horse braces against discomfort, potentially causing girth sensitivity and difficulty in proper saddle fit.
Extension of Tension into the Front Legs and Hooves
The compensatory patterns continue down the entire front leg, affecting the biceps, triceps, and forearm muscles that support movement.
Overuse of the deep digital flexor tendon and suspensory ligament in the forelimb results in additional strain on the lower limbs and hooves.
Uneven weight distribution leads to hoof imbalances, contributing to long-term wear issues and potential lameness.
Tension in the Poll and Its Effect on the Face and Jaw
The strain accumulating in the poll creates restrictions that affect the entire face, jaw, and head mechanics.
Increased tension in the temporo-mandibular joint (TMJ) can lead to difficulty chewing, bit resistance, and discomfort when accepting contact.
The hyoid apparatus, which connects to the tongue, is also affected. This can create tension patterns that extend into the lower jaw and tongue, potentially leading to difficulty swallowing and overall tension in the mouth.
Horses experiencing poll tension may show signs of head tossing, bracing against the bit, or discomfort in flexion due to the interconnected strain between the poll, jaw, and neck.
Understanding the Full-Body Compensation
This stress and tension pattern also affects the skeletal structure, as tight muscles pull on the bones and can cause them to misalign or, at the very least, be under constant strain. Over time, this leads to compensatory postural changes, discomfort, and altered movement mechanics, making it crucial to address both muscular and skeletal imbalances.
Horses with DSLD develop compensation patterns that extend far beyond the initial fetlock instability. By recognizing these interconnected tension pathways, bodyworkers and caregivers can address secondary muscular imbalances with targeted therapies such as:
Myofascial release to reduce fascial restrictions from the hamstrings to the poll.
Targeted massage therapy to release the longissimus dorsi, thoracic sling, and associated back muscles.
Stretching techniques to gently improve flexibility in the hamstrings, shoulders, neck, and jaw.
Supportive strengthening exercises to encourage stability without overloading compensating muscles.
Conclusion
DSLD is more than a localized issue—it affects the entire musculoskeletal system. By addressing the tension patterns that arise from this condition, equine caregivers can help support the horse’s comfort and mobility, ultimately enhancing overall well-being and quality of life.
This is not only true for DSLD but also for most other conditions, as tension patterns vary according to the specific condition, as well as localized pain areas. Recognizing these compensatory patterns and addressing them holistically can help prevent further discomfort and allow the horse to move with greater ease and balance.
DSLD is more than a localized issue—it affects the entire musculoskeletal system. By addressing the tension patterns that arise from this condition, equine caregivers can help support the horse’s comfort and mobility, ultimately enhancing overall well-being and quality of life.
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