Ringbone is a progressive, degenerative condition affecting the pastern and coffin joints in horses, often leading to stiffness, reduced range of motion, and chronic discomfort. While it can occur in horses of any discipline or age, certain factors such as conformation, repetitive stress, and age‑related wear make some horses more susceptible than others. Despite being a common issue in equine orthopaedics, ringbone remains complex, and its presentation can vary significantly from horse to horse.
This article presents insights from an anecdotal study of 25 horses diagnosed with ringbone, exploring symptoms observed, treatment approaches used, and outcomes reported by owners and practitioners. By looking at real‑world cases, we aim to shed light on how ringbone can affect a horse’s movement and performance, and the practical strategies that have been used to manage comfort and maintain soundness over time.
Whether you are seeking to better understand early warning signs or interested in how different approaches have worked in real equine cases, this study offers useful perspectives to support your decision‑making and long‑term care planning.
✔ Repair when something goes wrong.
✔ Prevent problems before they occur.
✔ Perfect their daily routines.
Can a horse diagnosed with Ringbone use EQU StreamZ?
Ringbone is a form of osteoarthritis found in horses which specifically relates to an arthritic change in their coffin/pastern joints. This painful condition will require treatment.
There is currently no scientifically proven method to avoid the development of ringbone and as such horse owners around the world use a variety of methods to support their horse if they are diagnosed with this condition.
The majority of owners will look to reduce the horses pain levels using painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications with a growing number now looking at more natural methods including herbs, homeopathy and a variety of complementary tack products.
EQU StreamZ for Ringbone
Traditional magnetic devices create a pulsating effect around the horses leg and this pulse leads to an increase in heat, as shown in thermal imaging studies. When treating ringbone and the associated inflammation from the condition it is important that the area does not become too hot. For this reason, traditional magnetic devices should not be used alongside a horse diagnosed with ringbone.
EQU StreamZ unique approach to the magnetic therapy market, 360º Advanced Magnetism, creates no heat and as such is suitable to be used alongside a horse or pony previously diagnosed with ringbone.
Study Group of 25 horses with Ringbone
This study was developed internally to help provide efficacy evidence to support whether EQU StreamZ advanced magnetic bands can be used alongside a horse who has been diagnosed with ringbone.
Twenty-five (25) horses previously diagnosed with ringbone were sourced using social media and evaluated by their owners for 30 days. StreamZ had no previous relationship with the owners and the horses had not been using StreamZ technology prior to the trial.
Initially a survey was sent to each owner and once the horse qualified a set of bands was sent to them. They were then required to keep them on for 30 days and to report back via another survey with what impact the technology had after those 30 days.
Many of these horses had been administered various treatments and medications prior to the study and were interested to establish what impact EQU StreamZ magnetic bands would have on their horses ringbone and recovery process.
Study findings after 30-days of use
After 30 days of use owners completed a 'final survey' by answering a series of questions relating to their horses Ringbone. These anecdotal survey results provide a level of efficacy when suggested EQU StreamZ bands can be used alongside a horse diagnosed with ringbone and is the view of each owner within the study group.
This study makes no medical claims and is purely anecdotal evidence form other users of the technology. No professionally prescribed medications or treatments should be replaced.
Question 1)
Please confirm your horse has worn the EQU StreamZ bands for a minimum of 8 hours per day and consistently through the period of the trial?
This indicated that the study was consistent and that no horses in the trial were left without the product for longer than the recommended period of time. Although two horses can in theory share a set of bands we recommend that every horse uses StreamZ technology for at least 8 hours per day and specifically when sleeping. (in 'recovery mode’)
Question 2)
As a result of using EQU StreamZ horse bands have you noticed a reduction in the ringbone symptoms?
Question 3)
If a reduction in ringbone symptoms did occur, at what stage in the trial period did you notice the effect?
In many cases owners look for the quickest form of treatment to help their horse and although painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications provide in most cases an immediate response many owners are keen to look at more natural and long-term solutions.
This study showed that 68% of horses within the study experienced a reduction in ringbone symptoms within the first week of use.
Question 4)
Do you feel the EQU StreamZ bands have helped increase your horses mobility?
Question 5)
Do you feel the EQU StreamZ bands have helped with your horses energy levels?
Question 6)
Do you feel the EQU StreamZ bands have helped with your horses general wellbeing and overall demeanour?
Question 7)
Would you recommend EQU StreamZ bands to other horse owners as a complementary method to reduce the symptoms associated with ringbone?
Conclusion
Ringbone is a challenging condition that can significantly impact a horse’s mobility and comfort. The findings from this anecdotal study of 25 horses highlight that symptoms, severity, and response to treatment can vary widely, emphasising the importance of early detection and individualised care.
Effective management often combines veterinary assessment, anti-inflammatory therapies, corrective shoeing, controlled exercise, and supportive equipment to reduce strain on affected joints and maintain long-term soundness. Monitoring subtle changes in movement, gait, or behaviour can help owners intervene early and adjust care routines as needed.
While ringbone cannot always be fully reversed, proactive management and thoughtful rehabilitation can help horses remain comfortable, maintain function, and continue performing at their best. Understanding the condition, tailoring care to each horse’s needs, and maintaining a consistent monitoring plan are key to supporting long-term wellbeing.
92% of this study group agree!!
👉 Articles of interest:
If your horse is recovering from injury, read our complete guide to Rehabilitation & Recovery for Equine Injuries (Repair).
Prevention is as important as cure. With this in mind, read our guide to How to Prevent Injuries in Horses (Prevent).
To go beyond prevention and optimise long-term soundness, explore Optimising Performance in Horses (Perfect).