What is einschuss?

Einschuss usually occurs due to a small wound on the horse's leg, which may sometimes be hard to find. An inflammation of the lymphatic vessels occurs, which can spread to the blood vessels. Einschuss is recognizable by the fact that it always occurs on one leg. Swelling in einschuss often starts at the base of the leg and rapidly expands. A minor injury can lead to a severe acute inflammation, resulting in a swollen and warm leg. The horse may also have a fever and feel lethargic.

What is CPL?

In Chronic Progressive Lymphoedema (CPL), the lymphatic vessels in the legs no longer function optimally, causing lymph fluid to be drained too slowly. The horse develops thicker lower legs. With CPL, ridges, folds, and sometimes bumps eventually form on the legs. CPL is particularly common in draft horses, Friesians, tinkers, and other breeds with lots of hair on the legs. If a horse develops ridges and skin folds on the legs and in the fetlock areas, infections and skin problems can arise. Especially if the horse has thick socks on its legs, these issues may not be immediately visible. The horse may experience skin irritation and itching. CPL unfortunately cannot be cured and must be closely monitored to prevent it from worsening rapidly.

Role of the lymphatic system

In both CPL and einschuss, the function of the lymphatic system is disrupted. The lymphatic system removes fluid (including waste products) from the tissues. For horses, which have long legs, movement is crucial for maintaining lymph fluid drainage. The lymphatic system lacks a pump, like the heart in the circulatory system. Einschuss results in a sudden increase in lymph fluid production, impeding drainage. If the leg becomes too swollen, the lymphatic vessels can be damaged, leading to permanent swelling. The fluid may then not be drained properly. CPL also causes damage to the lymphatic system. Often, this is genetically determined, with tissues lacking sufficient elasticity. Due to the damage to the lymphatic vessels, the legs become increasingly swollen, developing more skin folds and bumps. Draining lymph fluid becomes increasingly difficult.

Movement, nutrition, and lymphatic drainage

Through movement (free movement and exercise), the lymphatic system is activated and fluid is drained. In addition to movement and wound care, proper nutrition is essential for managing both einschuss and CPL. Additionally, a therapist who applies lymphatic drainage can play a role. Lymphatic drainage helps stimulate the drainage of lymph fluid.

Herbs for the lymphatic system

There are supplements that support the lymphatic system. These herbs can be part of the approach to both einschuss and CPL. For example, a nettle cure is one such option. Additionally, good nutrition is important, without (much) added grains and sugars.