As temperatures drop, it’s important to keep your horse healthy and active. Cold weather not only affects muscles, but also tendons and ligaments, which are key to a horse’s mobility and performance. Without proper care, these connective tissues can become stiff, stretched or even injured during exercise in the colder months of the year. Fortunately, Incrediwear Equine Circulation Exercise Bandages are designed to support tendon and ligament health all year round and can be a great benefit, especially in cold weather.
The effect of cold weather on tendons and ligaments
Tendons and ligaments are made up of dense connective tissue that requires proper circulation to stay flexible and strong. In cold weather, reduced blood flow can make these tissues stiffer and more susceptible to injury.
Here's how cold weather affects tendons and ligaments:
Reduced flexibility: Tendons and ligaments lose elasticity in colder temperatures, making them more likely to strain or tear during exercise.
Slower warm-up: Cold weather can delay the activation of tendons and ligaments, reducing their effectiveness at absorbing shock and transmitting force.
Higher risk of injury : Stiffness in connective tissues can lead to overuse, which increases the risk of injuries such as tendonitis or ligament sprains.
The superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) and suspensory ligament—critical for movement and stability—are particularly susceptible to stiffness and overload caused by cold.
How do Incrediwear Equine Circulation Bandages help?
Incrediwear Equine Circulation Bandages, which are applied around the navicular bone, are specifically designed to promote blood flow in the lower extremities and deliver oxygen to tendons and ligaments. Featuring Incrediwear fabric technology with semiconductors such as carbon and germanium, the bandages are activated by the horse's body heat, stimulating increased blood circulation in the targeted area.
Here's how they support tendon and ligament health during cold weather exercise:
Improving warm-up
By increasing blood circulation around the split bone, the bandages help the tendons and ligaments warm up more effectively. This makes them more flexible and ready to absorb forces during movement, reducing the risk of overuse.
Tendon and ligament protection
Increased blood flow keeps tendons and ligaments more supple, reducing the likelihood of micro-tears or overuse injuries during exercise. This is especially important for horses working on uneven or frozen terrain.
Reducing fatigue
Better blood flow improves the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to connective tissues, allowing them to perform for longer without fatigue. This is crucial for maintaining strength and endurance during prolonged exercise.
How to effectively use Incrediwear Equine Circulation Bandages?
When preparing a horse for riding:
Apply the bandages around the navicular bone, immediately after treating the feet before activity. This helps prepare the tendons and ligaments for activity by increasing blood circulation and oxygenation, improving flexibility and reducing the risk of injury.
During the exercise:
Use bandages during training to maintain blood circulation and prevent injuries by keeping connective tissues flexible and strong.
Cooling : If it is necessary to cool the horse's legs, use bandages that are designed for cooling:
Keep bandages on during the cool-down phase to promote recovery by reducing inflammation and preventing tendons and ligaments from stiffening.
Recovery after exercise:
To extend the benefits of Incrediwear Equine technology, use Incrediwear Equine pads during stable rest to improve blood circulation and prevent stiffness and swelling in the legs while standing on point.
Why use circulatory bandages?
Winter training often brings unique challenges: frozen ground, colder air, and an increased risk of stiffness and overuse. Incrediwear Equine Circulation Bandages offer a targeted solution to these challenges by actively supporting the health of your horse's lower extremities. By promoting blood circulation and improving tissue elasticity, they ensure your horse stays comfortable, protected, and ready for the next ride.
Protecting what matters most
Tendons and ligaments are the foundation of every step your horse takes. With Incrediwear Equine Circulation Bandages, you can give them the support they need to thrive - even in the coldest conditions. Whether you're preparing for a competition, heading out for a ride, or just keeping your horse active through the winter, these bandages are your partner in horse care.
Don't let cold weather slow your horse down. Keep ligaments and tendons supple, strong and healthy with advanced blood flow technology. Because every step counts.
