Eye Injuries Protocol

(Including Corneal Ulcers, Eyelid Lacerations, Uveitis, and General Ocular Irritation)

Protocol:

Begin with the Basics Course to learn proper tape handling, stretch, and technique. For eye injuries, clogged eye ducts, and eye issues due to allergies, use the Allergies/Bug Bites application found in the Applications Library.

• For clogged tear ducts, this application supports drainage, relieves discomfort, and can be used in conjunction with veterinary treatment.

• For allergy-related eye symptoms (weepy, gooey, or itchy eyes, runny nose), apply the Allergies/Bug Bites application to support lymphatic drainage from the facial nodes, clear histamine reactions, and reduce swelling.

• For acute traumatic injuries (corneal ulcers, eyelid lacerations, or active uveitis), always consult your veterinarian for diagnosis. Apply the Allergies/Bug Bites application (Applications Library); this application will increase circulation to the eye and surrounding area, decrease inflammation, remove fluid stasis, reduce discomfort, and activate the lymphatic system to increase natural healing. This application can be used in conjunction with all veterinary treatments.

• For chronic or recurring ocular swelling (after the acute phase is resolved and with veterinary clearance), use the Allergies/Bug Bites application as needed to maintain drainage and comfort.

• Continue the protocol until symptoms resolve and normal eye function is restored.

Tape Type:

• 2-Way - 2" (recommended for all eye and facial applications)

When to Use:

• For horses with irritated eyes, clogged tear ducts, swelling, injury, trauma, or allergy-related eye symptoms (always after veterinary assessment and diagnosis for trauma or infection)

• As part of a management or comfort plan for chronic issues or environmental triggers

• To support lymphatic drainage, reduce swelling, relieve pain, and promote healing

• For horses exposed to dust, wind, pollen, or environmental irritants

How Long to Tape:

• For acute injuries, clogged ducts, allergies, swelling, or other eye issues, use the application until the injury, issue, or dysfunction has resolved.

• For chronic or recurring issues, use as needed during flare-ups or high-risk conditions (dust storms, allergy season).

• Leave the tape on until it loses its recoil, becomes loose, or collects debris underneath.

• For severe or chronic cases, repeat applications as needed along with veterinary treatments.

For Chronic Cases:

For ongoing or slow-resolving eye issues, use the Allergies/ Bug Bites application (Applications Library) every few days or as symptoms reappear. Coordinate with your veterinarian for ongoing assessment and adjustment.

Eye Injury Management Note:

• Always consult your veterinarian for any eye injury, especially corneal ulcers, uveitis, or lacerations—never apply tape over open wounds or active infection. If the horse has an infection, wait until the horse has been on antibiotics for 4 days before taping, or proceed with veterinary approval immediately.

• Ensure the application does not interfere with blinking or cause discomfort. Do not tape over the eyelashes.

• Provide a dust-free, clean environment and minimize exposure to irritants.

• Regularly monitor for changes in discharge, swelling, or pain. The tape removes swelling quickly, so you will need to redo your application more frequently as the tape will become loose.

• Document response to taping and adjust protocols as needed.

Clinical Reasoning:

These protocols support lymphatic drainage, reduce swelling, and relieve pain in the sensitive tissues around the eye and face. The Allergies/Bug Bites applications decompress soft tissue, stimulate nerves, and enhance circulation, accelerating healing and comfort. The Allergies/Bug Bites application portion targets lymphatic nodes in the face, clears histamine reactions, removes fluid buildup, reduces swelling and inflammation, and decreases pain and discomfort. Consistent use supports comfort, faster resolution of symptoms, and reduces the risk of chronic irritation or complications. For serious injuries, always use as an adjunct to veterinary care.