Windgalls in horses (also known as windpuffs) are soft, synovial swellings that appear around the fetlock joint or digital flexor tendon sheath. They are caused by an over-secretion of joint fluid due to repetitive strain or irritation, and while usually benign and painless, they indicate underlying stress on the horse's soft tissues.
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Windgalls — often seen as soft, fluid‑filled swellings around a horse’s fetlock, tendon sheath, or cannon bone — are a common condition in horses of all ages and disciplines. While they are frequently considered cosmetic or benign, they can also signal underlying stress on soft tissues that deserves attention. Understanding what causes windgalls, how to recognise them, and what treatment and management options are available is essential for maintaining your horse’s comfort and long‑term soundness.
These swellings are usually linked to repetitive strain, overwork, conformation, or changes in workload and can occur on one or both legs. Although windgalls themselves are not always painful, they may indicate underlying tendon or ligament stress that, if ignored, could contribute to more serious issues. This guide explores the symptoms, causes, and effective treatment options — including when veterinary intervention is advisable — so you can support your horse’s wellbeing with confidence.
Windgalls in Horses | What are they?
Windgalls, also known as wind puffs, are soft synovial swellings that develop slightly above and behind the fetlock joint, due to an over-secretion of joint fluid, caused by irritation to the joint surfaces or joint capsule.
Windgalls may occur in other joints and tendons but are most commonly found around the fetlocks or on the digital flexor tendon sheath. We investigate how they are caused, diagnosed and treatments available.
It would be slightly inaccurate to refer to Windgalls as inflammation as it is closer to leg filling.
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Are Windgalls and Windpuffs the same?
In the USA in particular, some horse owners refer to Windgall inflammation as "Wind puffs", clearly as the windgalls itself puffs up. They are the same thing. Windgalls however are not Edema and as such should be treated differently.
A Comparison Table (Windgalls or Edema?)
| Feature | Windgalls (Windpuffs) | Oedema (Stocking Up) |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Localised around the fetlock joint or tendon sheath. | Generalised swelling, often the entire lower leg. |
| Feel | Soft, squishy, and fluid-filled (like a small water balloon). | Often "pitting" (if you press it, a thumbprint remains). |
| Cause | Repetitive strain, joint stress, or wear and tear. | Poor circulation, inactivity, or systemic issues. |
| Heat/Pain | Usually "cold" and non-painful (unless severe). | Can be warm or tender if caused by inflammation. |
| Movement | Swelling often remains even after exercise. | Swelling usually disappears or reduces with movement. |
As you can see, they are slightly different conditions.
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Diagnosing Windgalls in horses
There are two types of windgalls diagnosed by professionals often referred to as ‘Tendinous Windgalls’ and ‘Articular Windgalls’. Generally, windgalls are benign in nature and are regarded as minor damage to the joint, appearing without pain, heat or lameness. A windgall type of swelling appearing below the fetlock and indicating levels of pain, heat or lameness, should be treated with suspicion.
It is worth noting that the inflammation within the leg can sometimes mimic other inflammatory issues, including stifle injuries (which are higher up the leg) or other filled leg symptoms.
The most commonly occurring type of windgall diagnosed is 'tendinous windgall' and is typically seen in middle-aged horses who have had a busy and active life.
Often the swelling is actually the membrane that lines the sheath which becomes thicker, as opposed to a build-up of fluid around the joint. ''Tendinous Windgalls' are unlikely to cause pain or lameness and in most cases, the animal intermittently experiences the issue.
Articular windgalls often occur in horses who have been diagnosed with the degenerative joint disease (DJD) or similar issues involving the joints within the legs. Articular windgalls are found in numerous horses who display no symptoms of lameness and are firm swollen protrusions in the middle of the cannon bone or the suspensory ligament.
Common equine disciplines who suffer with Windgalls
Articular windgalls are common in show jumping and barrel racing horses due to the regular impact on the joints when jumping and twisting around barrels.
In the same way that bog spavin can be a symptom of degenerative joint disease in the hock joint, windgalls is sometimes associated to be an indication of an underlying health problem.
Although rarely creating visible pain, it is of significant importance to dressage riders, 3-day Eventers and show horses and ponies that their legs are in the best condition possible and as much as anything they simply look horrible!
The fact that no pain is experienced, it is widely accepted that the most appropriate action to take is a more natural approach.
Symptoms of Windgalls in Horses
There are a few symptoms which you can look out for to help diagnose windgalls in horses and understanding the best form of treatment. Diagnosing windgalls is relatively straight forward and in most cases does not require a veterinary examination.
Inflamed Windgalls in Horses
The first symptom often found is swelling around the fetlock joint and the tendons themselves.
Swollen Windgalls in Horses
The swelling in the leg will often seem larger (swollen) but will not be sore to touch. More serious cases may create a rigid swelling around the sheath. In some cases your horse will indicate an issue through changes in their performance and behaviour but in most cases the horse will remain sound.
Severe Windgalls in Horses
Although rare, severe windgalls can lead to Lameness and if this is found then it will often indicate a more significant underlying issue in the horses hoof.
What are the main causes of Windgalls?
Windgalls in horses are due to irritation to the surfaces of the joints and are often found in more active horses. In some scenarios it is thought that windgalls are present due to excess fluid in the tendon sheath but the following factors are the most commonly reported contributions to the condition:
– Bad conformation.
– Overworking the horse.
– Extensive activity/exercise on hard surfaces.
– Improper trimming/farrier work.
– A tear to the ligament, tendon or joint capsule.
– An injury to the cartilage within the joint.
Treatments used for Windgalls
There remains no scientifically proven cure for windgalls.
Treating windgalls with exercise
Once windgalls occur, they are likely to come back when activity or exercise is again increased, so, a long term approach to treating the condition is required.
Adjusting your horses diet for windgalls
If your horse experiences windgalls it is advised by many that you should consult with your vet to establish a specific treatment plan including potentially a change in the horses exercise and diet.
Modifying your horses training program
Modifying your horse’s training or work can help to reduce the irritation and inflammation that leads to the onset of windgalls.
Ensure the horses legs are kept cool
It is important not to increase heat levels within the swollen leg, this is of significant importance when looking to reduce any form of inflammation or swelling and particularly with 'windgall swelling'. In this regard, traditional magnetic devices creating a pulse should be avoided as they create heat via the oscillating nature of their magnet fields. Many of these traditional products will indicate a maximum length of time their magnets can be worn, and indication of how they increase heat around the horses leg.
Use cold compresses to help windgalls
A low-cost and natural treatment often deployed includes the use of cold compresses and bandages, or investment in a set of Coolboots. These are generally time-consuming to apply and maintain and simply 'cover the issue'.
Anti-inflammatory medications used to help windgalls
Anti-inflammatory medications or NSAIDS are widely used to help reduce inflammation, however, with the side effects they can cause many users will resist the need unless the horse is showing signs of pain.
Other techniques used to support horses with Windgalls
Focal ultrasound therapy is now a technique which can be administered and injections of hyaluronic acid may be considered if the problem is severe. This can help normalise the environment of the tendon sheath.
It is widely accepted within the equine community that due to windgalls being mostly cosmetic in most circumstances avoiding invasive therapy is morally correct. The requirement to find a natural solution to this commonly diagnosed issue is of significant interest.
Along with providing complementary devices many horse owners who have a horse with windgalls ensure that the horse is shooed correctly. They must ensure the horse is not being over worked or working on to hard surfaces.
New approaches to treating Windgalls
There are a variety of complementary treatments that are available to support the ongoing care and maintenance of your horse with windgalls, many of which are not endorsed by medical science but still represent an option to owners.
Many supplements and herbs are available on the market to provide support to horses joints and their general wellbeing, but not specifically developed for windgalls.
Natural or homeopathy approaches can be applied using extracts such as Boswellia Serrata Extract Powder which is used to provide anti-inflammatory response and a natural form of pain relief.
The majority of owners apply cold compresses or bandages to aid a reduction in inflammation, this can be tiresome and is often required on a daily basis.
With advancements in magnetic technologies many owners battling windgalls now turn to advanced magnetic products to use alongside any other treatments. These advanced magnetic technologies, although only supported anecdotally, are making waves within the equine community due to their continuously growing support based on results.
It is reported that this non invasive form of magnetic technology creates no heat and as such is ideal for supporting inflammatory issues such as windgalls. In some glowing reports owners have seen results within a few days and complete disappearance within a few weeks. Although complementary and not endorsed by medical science, advanced magnetic products such as EQU StreamZ provide owners with another option in the treatment of windgalls.
Windgalls study carried out on 25 horses using EQU StreamZ bands
When EQU Streamz first launched we were regularly contacted by horse owners expressing their delight at how the EQU StreamZ horse bands had reduced their horses Windgalls.
For efficacy purposes StreamZ developed a study on 25 horses diagnosed with Windgalls to establish the impact of StreamZ unique technology on horses Windgalls.
Would EQU StreamZ reduce the horse wind puffs, how quickly would the effects take and what dat would show following the study?
The following statistics are taken from the results of the study. This study shows a significant benefit to horses wearing EQU StreamZ to reduce (and remove) signs of Windgalls.
Conclusion
Windgalls (or Wind puffs) are a relatively common and often misunderstood condition in horses. While they are typically soft, non‑painful swellings, their presence can signal that the horse’s soft tissues are under stress — particularly when workload increases, conformation places extra strain on certain limbs, or training surfaces are inconsistent. Recognising windgalls early, understanding what contributes to them, and responding appropriately can help you support your horse’s comfort and long‑term soundness.
Effective management isn’t just about treating the swelling — it’s about addressing the factors that contribute to tendon and ligament strain. A combination of sensible workload adjustment, proper warm‑ups and cool‑downs, careful surface selection, and routine monitoring can reduce the risk of recurring windgalls or associated soft tissue problems. Veterinary input may be necessary when there is heat, pain, or changes in gait, as this can indicate deeper soft tissue involvement.
By staying observant and proactive, you can protect your horse’s soft tissues and ensure they remain comfortable, confident, and sound in their work. Windgalls should be regarded as a useful signpost — not always a problem in themselves, but a prompt to evaluate training demands, condition, and recovery strategies for your horse.
👉 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).
Frequently Asked Questions
What are windgalls in horses?
Windgalls are soft, fluid-filled swellings that appear around a horse’s fetlock, tendon sheath, or cannon bone. They are usually caused by repetitive strain or overuse of the limbs and often indicate underlying stress on tendons and ligaments.
Are windgalls painful for horses?
Most windgalls are not painful and do not cause lameness. However, if the swelling is hot, hard, or accompanied by changes in gait, it could indicate inflammation or tendon injury that requires veterinary assessment.
What causes windgalls in horses?
Windgalls commonly develop due to repetitive exercise, increased workload, or conformational factors that place extra stress on soft tissues. Training on hard or uneven surfaces and insufficient warm-ups or cool-downs can also contribute.
How are windgalls treated?
Treatment often involves rest, workload management, and supportive care. Veterinary guidance may be needed if there is pain, heat, or lameness. Cold therapy, protective boots, and controlled exercise can help support recovery and reduce swelling.
Can windgalls be prevented?
Yes. Prevention focuses on gradual workload increases, proper warm-up and cool-down routines, good surface management, and regular monitoring of your horse’s legs. Early recognition of stress signs can help avoid more serious tendon or ligament injuries.
Do windgalls affect a horse’s performance?
Generally, windgalls do not impact performance if the horse is not in pain and there is no underlying injury. They can serve as a visual indicator to review workload and recovery practices to maintain long-term soundness.
Have EQU StreamZ been proven to reduce windgalls in horses?
They sure have! Studies carried out on 25 horse's with Windgalls were truly remarkable and gave significant efficacy evidence to supporting bio-resonance as a therapy for windgalls filling.