b'TYING-UP:Veterinarians can take muscle biopsies to Where Do We Stand? examine glycogen in the muscle cells of a horse thats been worked up for tying-up. Abnormal-looking glycogen means the Sports Medicine at Michigan Statehorse has PSSM.University, in East Lansing, has dedicated her career to studying equine neuromus-cular diseases. Thanks to these efforts and those of other experts worldwide, veterinarians can more rapidly identify specific forms of tying-up, such as PSSM. They can now even differentiate between forms ofPSSMan important distinc-tion when youre considering treatment.Perhaps most importantly, research in this field has generated proven exercise- and nutrition-based management strate-gies for horses affected by the disease. PAULA DA SILVAIn this article well summarize the steps needed to identify PSSM, distinguish between the types, and offer recommen-dations for managing affected horses. veterinarian? And should that ownerbeen overeating, or have a dietary imbal-expect to see more episodes? ance, such as excesses or deficiencies of Understanding Tying-Up Some horses tie up only sporadically,certain vitamins or minerals.You might have heard an ownerlikely due to factors in the environment,Alternatively, some horses suffer say, Oh, my horse tied up this week- Valberg says. For example, horses canrepeated, or chronic, bouts of tying-up. end. But what exactly does that mean,tie up when their level of exercise exceedsClassic examples, as highlighted in the other than an unexpected visit from thetheir training or lack thereof, if they havetable on page 28, include malignant Got a horse that needs weight? Looking for more energy without excitability?Struggling with a hard keeper?Ask your vet aboutWeightGainWiseTMA high-fat, low-starch supplement.Developed by:Available only through your veterinarian. KPPvet.com, 859-873-2974TH 2018-0324TheHorse.comTHE HORSE March 2018'