Stifle Problems Protocol

(Including Locking Stifle, Ligament Injuries)

Protocol:

Begin with the Basics Course to learn proper tape handling, stretch, and technique. Use the Stifle application in the Applications Library to address any of the following based on case and severity:

• For mild/lower joint support and general muscle/joint support (biceps femoris focus).

• For moderate support, especially for medial patellar ligament issues, joint instability, and recovery from sprains (medial patellar ligament focus).

• For advanced/medial and lateral joint support, professional athlete support, or horses with severe instability, arthritis, or multiple ligament involvement (medial and lateral joint focus).

For locking stifle or medial patellar ligament injuries, moderate support application is typically recommended. For lateral instability, complex injuries, or high-performance horses, use a more advanced support application. For horses returning to work after rest, or with a history of stifle issues, choose the application matching their current workload and risk.

Tape Type:

• 4-Way - 2” (recommended for joint support applications)

• 4-Way - 3” (recommended for joint support applications)

When to Use:

• For horses diagnosed with locking stifle, medial patellar ligament injury, lateral ligament injury, joint instability, or stifle arthritis (always after veterinary assessment for confirmed diagnosis)

• As part of a recovery, management, or injury prevention plan alongside veterinary care, muscle strengthening, and proper conditioning

• For horses returning to work after rest, growth spurts, or injury

• To support joint stability, relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and promote muscle memory for proper stifle function

How Long to Tape:

• For acute injuries or instability, use until the horse is sound and all signs of pain, swelling, and mechanical dysfunction have resolved (re-evaluate every 7–10 days)

• For chronic or recurring stifle problems, use during flare-ups, periods of increased activity, or as part of ongoing management

• Moderate Support applications: Typically reapply weekly, or as soon as tape loses its recoil, becomes loose, or collects debris underneath

• For horses with locking stifle or ongoing instability, a 6–8 week period of continuous use is recommended to re-pattern muscle memory and stabilize the joint

For Chronic Cases:

For ongoing stifle issues, follow the above protocols. After initial stabilization, use the Fascia Chain application (Applications Library) for 2 weeks to address and prevent fascia adhesions and dehydration. Restart the appropriate stifle protocol as needed. Once the issue is resolved, repeat the Fascia Chain application for 2 weeks to ensure complete fascia rehabilitation. Coordinate with your veterinarian for ongoing assessment.

Stifle Management Note:

• Always rule out hoof imbalance, back pain, and underlying lameness (hind end and back are closely related).

• Strengthen the quadriceps femoris, tensor fascia latae, and biceps femoris to support stifle function.

• Incorporate strategic exercise: uphill work, ground poles, and trail riding on safe, uneven terrain. Avoid going downhill during stifle rehab—if you need to go downhill, do so at a slow, collected walk. Avoid circles or tight turns; if you need to do circles or turns, the minimum radius should be 20 meters.

• Use proper warm-up and cool-down routines.

• Provide a balanced diet with adequate protein, minerals, and vitamin E.

• Monitor for recurrence, document response to taping, and adjust protocols as needed.

Clinical Reasoning:

These protocols stabilize the stifle joint, support the medial and lateral patellar ligaments, and reinforce muscle-ligament relationships critical for proper stifle function. They reduce pain, inflammation, and risk of re-injury while supporting muscle memory and joint mechanics. The Fascia Chain application prevents long-term dysfunction by restoring fascia health along the stifle and hind limb lines. Consistent use supports comfort, stability, and soundness, especially in horses with a history of stifle issues or returning to work after injury or rest.