Page 337 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse

within the fetlock canal. Pressure is then exerted on the ligament by the flexor tendons,

leading to persistent inflammation and pain.
VetBooks.ir Clinical signs

Acute injury is characterized by heat, swelling and pain on palpation of the region. The

degree of lameness is variable.

Chronic injury is more common. In these cases:
• the lameness is usually slight to moderate

• it improves slightly with rest but becomes worse with exercise

• it is often worse after a flexion test

• the lower limb has a characteristic appearance with an obvious constriction in the swollen
digital sheath (tendinous windgall) at the back of the fetlock (Figure 7.11) and a bulge

immediately above the annular ligament
• the horse may stand with the heel slightly raised from the ground to avoid pressure on the

inflamed ligament.