Hock Problems Protocol for Horses – Support for Arthritis, Swelling, C

Struggling With Hock Pain or Swelling? Find Proven Solutions

Simple taping for hock arthritis, swelling, capped hock, OCD, bone spavin, and chronic lameness—no guesswork.

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Help your horse move easier and recover faster from hock pain, lameness, or inflammation. This protocol gives you step-by-step EquiTecs methods to reduce swelling, increase stability, and keep your horse comfortable—whether you’re rehabbing an injury or managing long-term joint issues. All your instructions and supplies, in one bundle for total peace of mind.

Protocol:

Begin with the Basics Course to learn proper tape handling, stretch, and technique. For hock issues, use the Hock Application found in the Applications library.

• For capped hocks, always use Full Support as demonstrated in the Hock application.
• For arthritis, OCD, or bone spavin, combine the Hock Support application with the Circulation application (Applications Library) for enhanced relief of swelling, pain, and inflammation.
• For severe or chronic cases, continue the protocol until all signs of heat, swelling, and pain have completely resolved, and proper biomechanics and range of motion have been restored.

When to Use:

• For horses diagnosed with hock arthritis, OCD, capped hock, bone spavin, thoroughpin, or general hock lameness (always after veterinary assessment and diagnosis)
• As part of a recovery, management, or performance plan
• To support joint stability, reduce pain and swelling, and enhance comfort during work or recovery
• For horses in heavy work, post-injection, or with a history of hock issues

How Long to Tape:

• For acute injuries or flare-ups, use until all signs of pain, swelling, and mechanical dysfunction have resolved (re-evaluate every 7–10 days).
• For chronic or recurring hock problems, use during flare-ups, periods of increased activity, or as part of ongoing management.
• Leave the tape on until it loses its recoil, becomes loose, or collects debris underneath.
• For severe or chronic hock issues, a 6–8 week period of continuous use may be required to re-pattern muscle memory and support long-term healing.
• For prevention and athletic performance, use during increased workload, when progressing to a higher level, during competition, growth spurts, or changes in footing.

For Chronic Cases:

For ongoing hock issues, use the Hock Support and Circulation applications for 8 weeks. Then, use the Fascia Chain application over the affected fascia lines to remove fascia adhesions and rehydrate the fascia. Repeat the hock protocol. For an extra measure, repeat the Fascia Chain application for an additional 2 weeks to ensure the health and rehabilitation of the fascia line, significantly reducing the possibility of reinjury. Coordinate with your veterinarian and farrier for ongoing assessment and care.

Hock Management Note:

• Always rule out hoof imbalance, stifle, and back issues as sources of hock stress. Remember, a hock issue can be a symptom (referred pain) of back, stifle, or SI instability—many horses are improperly diagnosed with hock issues when they are actually the result of a different underlying problem.
• Ensure proper warm-up and cool-down routines.
• Avoid hard or uneven footing and overwork.
• Provide an appropriate cushioned space for rest and regular hoof care.
• Work closely with your veterinarian and farrier for optimal management.
• For all hock issues, minimize stall confinement and rough surfaces that could cause trauma.

Clinical Reasoning:

These protocols support joint stability, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain in the hock region. The Hock application provides progressive, targeted support to the complex hock joint, while the Circulation application enhances blood flow and tissue healing. The Fascia Chain application addresses fascia health and reduces the risk of reinjury. Consistent use promotes biomechanical function, faster recovery, and long-term soundness, especially in high-performance or chronically affected horses.