Hock Wraps
The Hock is the most important joint of the body. All the power of pulling forward is generated in the hindquarters and transmitted to the collar by contact with the ground via the hocks therefore special care needs to be provided to the Hock joints on working horses. When the hock area gets injured it can be diagnosed with various different problems most commonly known is DJD (degenerative joint desease) which EquineCool boots can assist in treating. Here are more conditions where EquineCool boots can be used as an alternative therapeutic treatment:
- Thoroughpins which are puffy swellings in what should be a hollow between the point of the hock and the main part of the joint.
- Capped hock which is a bulbous swelling over the point of the hock.
- Bog spavin which is soft swelling at the sides and front of the hock, caused by fluid buildup.
- Curbs which are firmer swellings at the back of the hock.
The basic principle of treating acute or chronic hock injuries are to reduce inflammation to the hock region. If you are suspicious of a hock injury, the application of cold, as soon as possible is a good first move. EquineCool Hock boots focusses on the major benefit of cold as it constricts the blood vessels and thereby slows down the movement of inflammation-creating blood cells into the damaged area. The greatest benefit from cold therapy comes from 20 minute applications spaced several hours apart. During the time between cold treatments the leg should be placed under firm pressure by using the EquineCool stable pads, this will create pressure which places a counter-force that potentially reduces edema formation in and around the damaged area.
The hock wraps are sold in pairs of 2. Each boot comes with 2 hot/cold packs. A colour choice of black or blue is available.
No more need for standing with a hose pipe to treat and cool the hocks anymore...especially in the winter!
Injury: When a horse is injured in the hock region, bruising and flaring muscles is the first sign of reaction which is why immediately using cold compressed therapy is critical as this reduces and prevents furter damage to muscle tissue. Using the EquineCool cold compression therapy by using the boots you will effectively slow down bruising and prevent the muscle tissue from flaring out.
The Hock Wraps are also made with a soft durable material, which is a tough compressed foam that is soft, stretchable and water resistant. The Hock Wrap with Cold Compress shaping conforms to the horse's hock for maximum coverage and keeps the cold compressed ice pack against the area being treated. Velcro straps allow for a secure tight fit every time and are easy to release. The Hock Wraps can be applied to horses and ponies as it is adjustable due to the Velcro straps and the material is easily washable.
