Page 394 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse

Prognosis

The prognosis is guarded unless the condition is diagnosed and appropriately treated straight
VetBooks.ir away. Antibiotic treatment is not always effective and the organism can be difficult to

eliminate from the body. Long-term infection can result in permanent joint damage, lameness
and debility.

THE HORSE’S KNEE (CARPUS)

Anatomy

The veterinary term for the horse’s knee is the carpus. It is a complex structure made up of
three joints and two rows of small bones (see diagrams). Most of the movement takes place
at the antebrachiocarpal and middle carpal joints (Figures 8.20a and b).

Figures 8.20a and b Knee bones and joints: a) lateral view; b) front view

Carpal joint inflammation

CAUSES

The carpus is susceptible to injury from falls, kicks and hitting fences as well as general wear

and tear. Young racehorses in particular are prone to joint inflammation and degenerative
changes due to the stresses of training and racing. Faulty conformation, e.g. back at the knee
and offset knees, predisposes the Thoroughbred racehorse to carpal disease (Figures 8.21b