Nonsurgical management includes cross-tying and stall rest for 4-8 weeks and the judicious use of anti-inflammatory drugs. NSADs as well as steroids are very often used for the treatment of spinal injuries.
If available, the patients are stabilized in a sling, which prevents them from lying down.
After this time, hand-walking for other 4-8 weeks is recommended, followed by cautious riding at a walk and gradual increase in the work load.