Bandages? Boots? Do they really help prevent injury?
Many of us use leg wraps religiously (in Dressage, at least). But are they proven to actually prevent concussion / strains or are we just being traditionalist?
I can understand leg protection for jumpers and eventers, and the western disciplines where there may be knocks to the leg.
Research I have read indicates that most bandaging does nothing, as the forces that go through a horses leg are phenomenal. (The exception is the sports medicine boot). Also I have heard that bandaging only in front causes the horse to put more weight onto the forehand.
I don't really know what to make of it all. What do you think?