The EPSM Page

EPSM (Equine Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy) or PSSM
If you own a Quarter horse, draft or warmblood, please visit this webpage to read all about EPSM (Equine Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy), to know what symptoms to look for. Other breeds can have this condition, too, so EPSM should be considered if a horse ties up, is stiff behind, has unexplained back soreness, or any kind of chronic hind end lameness. EPSM horses should receive no grain at all, and will require fat in their diet to keep their muscles from becoming sore.
Dr. Beth Valentine: http://www.ruralheritage.com/vet_clinic/index.htm

EPSM is also called "PSSM" especially when it occurs in Quarter Horse breeds. Dr. Stephanie Valberg has done a lot of research on Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy (PSSM) in the Quarter Horse breeds: http://www.cvm.umn.edu/umec/lab/PSSM.html This disorder has recently been traced to a genetic defect in Quarter Horses. In a recent study of healthy Quarter Horses, up to 12% had PSSM. (thehorse.com)

2008 NEWSFLASH! The gene for PSSM has now been identified!
Click here http://www.cvm.umn.edu/umec/lab/Advances_in_PSSM.html to read about the latest advances in genetic testing for PSSM, and to find more info on how to submit blood/hair samples for the genetic test.

EPSM/PSSM is usually easily managed with 1) as much turn-out as possible 2) as much regular exercise as possible 3) a low starch/low sugar and high fat diet. Diet instructions are available on websites above.

Click here to read Kendra's EPSM story. (Acrobat PDF file)

Above: Yvonne Welz riding Kendra, APHA Paint mare who has EPSM. This photo was taken about over one year after initial diagnosis. A good diet and exercise program completely ended all symptoms. She is healthy and athletic! She is still a challenge to manage because her exercise and diet must be kept optimal at all times.

©2008 by The Horse's Hoof. All rights reserved. No part of these publications may be reproduced by any means whatsoever without the written permission of the publisher and/or authors. The information contained within these articles is intended for educational purposes only, and not for diagnosing or medicinally prescribing in any way. Readers are cautioned to seek expert advice from a qualified health professional before pursuing any form of treatment on their animals. Opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher.