How to bandage your horse's leg for exercise
Bandaging a horse's legs is a technique that protects tendons and joints during work. If done incorrectly, it can be worse than not bandaging at all: it can compress, restrict circulation, or shift. This guide describes the basic procedure, complementary to the use of modern boots.
Required materials
- Elastic bandages, approximately 3 meters long
- Internal padding (cotton bandages or similar)
Step-by-step procedure
Step 1. Prepare the materials
Have the bandages rolled up with the fastening facing outwards. If using padding, it should also be rolled and ready. Work on a clean surface to avoid soiling the materials.
Step 2. Apply the padding
Start from the inside of the leg, just above the fetlock, and spiral upwards towards the knee without tightening. It should be smooth, without wrinkles.
Step 3. Start the elastic bandage
Begin at the fetlock, making two initial wraps to secure it. The tension should be firm but allow for breathing: you should be able to pass a finger between the bandage and the skin when finished.
Step 4. Spiral upwards towards the knee
Each wrap should overlap the previous one by two-thirds. The pressure should be uniform. The bandage should not wrinkle the padding or be pulled unevenly.
Step 5. Secure the fastening
When you reach the top, secure it with the Velcro or the model's fastening. Check that it is not on the inside where it could get caught by rubbing against the other leg.
Step 6. Check the bandaged leg
You should be able to comfortably insert a finger between the bandage and the skin. The leg should not become cold during work (a sign of excessive pressure).
Step 7. Remove at the end of the session
Do not leave on longer than necessary. After work, unbandage, allow the leg to breathe, and check for rub marks.
Frequently asked questions
Bandages or boots?
Modern boots are more practical and sufficient for most uses. Bandages require technique and are used in advanced dressage and specific cases.
Can they be left bandaged overnight?
No. Working bandages are for exercise, not rest. For rest, specific soft bandages with a different technique are used.
How do I wash the bandages?
Machine wash at 30°C in a mesh bag, air dry. Do not use fabric softener; it reduces elasticity.
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