Post by IH Health on Jul 30, 2009 15:44:34 GMT 1
Splints
Also known as
Periostitis
What is it?
Bones are covered in a thin membrane (layer) called Periosteum. Trauma to the bone from a direct blow or damage to the ligaments can cause the periosteum to become inflamed and haemorrhaging occurring between the layer and the bone, lifting them apart. Osteoblasts (bone forming cells) then attempt to create new bone to fill in the gap. This leads to bony lumps called splints.
Causes
Splints are normally found on the cannon bone and is caused by trauma, tearing, friction or concussion of the splint bone from the interosseus ligament. The causes can include over working of a youngster, direct blow to the splint bone, repetitive concussion, poor conformation and/or incorrect trimming of the hoof.
Symptoms
• A bony lump is seen on the cannon bone, normally 6-7cm below the knee
• Heat, pain and swelling (during formation)
• Lameness
Treatment
The first port of call is to reduce any inflammation with cold treatments, magnetic wraps and/or support bandages. Box rest is advised to prevent further aggravation. But may be prescribed to allievate pain and help reduce swelling. Dimethyl Sulphoxide in cream form may also be applied to the skin to reduce swelling. Surgery may be an option if ligaments or the knee joint is affected.
Please post below any information you have on this subject or of your experiences in diagnosis/treatment/aftercare. All information given is for reference only and does not constitute or should replace qualified veterinarian advice.
Also known as
Periostitis
What is it?
Bones are covered in a thin membrane (layer) called Periosteum. Trauma to the bone from a direct blow or damage to the ligaments can cause the periosteum to become inflamed and haemorrhaging occurring between the layer and the bone, lifting them apart. Osteoblasts (bone forming cells) then attempt to create new bone to fill in the gap. This leads to bony lumps called splints.
Causes
Splints are normally found on the cannon bone and is caused by trauma, tearing, friction or concussion of the splint bone from the interosseus ligament. The causes can include over working of a youngster, direct blow to the splint bone, repetitive concussion, poor conformation and/or incorrect trimming of the hoof.
Symptoms
• A bony lump is seen on the cannon bone, normally 6-7cm below the knee
• Heat, pain and swelling (during formation)
• Lameness
Treatment
The first port of call is to reduce any inflammation with cold treatments, magnetic wraps and/or support bandages. Box rest is advised to prevent further aggravation. But may be prescribed to allievate pain and help reduce swelling. Dimethyl Sulphoxide in cream form may also be applied to the skin to reduce swelling. Surgery may be an option if ligaments or the knee joint is affected.
Please post below any information you have on this subject or of your experiences in diagnosis/treatment/aftercare. All information given is for reference only and does not constitute or should replace qualified veterinarian advice.