What medical therapies are commonly used for PSD?

What medical therapies are commonly used for PSD?

• A. NSAIDs, shockwave therapy, and regenerative medicine such as platelet-rich plasma or stem cell therapy; supportive hoof care.
• B. Antibiotics and antifungals only.
• C. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
• D. Gene therapy and acupuncture only.

Answer: (A)

Proximal suspensory desmitis (PSD) in horses is an inflammatory and degenerative issue of the proximal suspensory ligament, and its best management is a multifaceted approach that supports healing while controlling pain and preserving limb function. Using anti-inflammatory drugs like NSAIDs helps reduce pain and swelling, which can limit activity and hinder healing if left unmanaged. Shockwave therapy provides a mechanical stimulus that can enhance blood flow and tissue repair processes, potentially speeding recovery. Regenerative medicine approaches such as platelet-rich plasma or stem cell therapies introduce growth factors and reparative cells that support ligament healing and regeneration. Pairing these medical therapies with proper hoof care—trimming, shoeing, and hoof support—addresses the mechanics that contribute to PSD and protects the healing tissue from excessive strain. Antibiotics or antifungals don’t target PSD itself, since it’s not primarily an infection. Chemotherapy or radiation therapy and gene therapy aren’t standard treatments for PSD. Acupuncture alone isn’t sufficient as the primary treatment, though it might be used as an adjunct in some cases. The combination of anti-inflammatories, therapies to stimulate repair, and corrective hoof management provides the most effective, evidence-supported approach to promoting healing and return to function.