Very Common
Less Common
OTHER DIAGNOSES CONSIDERED
Other conditions or ailments that might also need to be ruled out by a vet.
Diagnosis
Conditions or ailments that are the cause of a problem that you see - your observation.
Your vet may diagnose
Gastrocnemius Rupture
Synonyms: Achilles Tendon Rupture
Summary
The gastrocnemius muscle attaches the upper limb to the point of the hock. If it is ruptured, a major part of the support of the limb is lost. The limb simply folds (the hock flexes) when the horse bears weight.
The injury associated with this diagnosis is usually a deep laceration above the point of the hock on the rear of the limb which cuts through the muscle. The muscle or tendon can also be ruptured from trauma without breaking the skin.
The injury associated with this diagnosis is usually a deep laceration above the point of the hock on the rear of the limb which cuts through the muscle. The muscle or tendon can also be ruptured from trauma without breaking the skin.
my vet's role
Diagnostics Used
These are tests that might be helpful to make this diagnosis or further characterize the condition.
Less Common
Treatments May Include
These treatments might be used to help resolve or improve this condition.
PROGNOSIS AND RELEVANT FACTORS
Poor.my role
I might observe
You might make these observations when a horse has this condition.
Very Common
Questions To Ask Your Vet:
- How do you think this injury occured?
- How long before my horse can walk again, or go back to work, if ever?
- Is this so bad that euthanasia should be considered?
Prevention
Good husbandry and training to reduce the likelihood of severe injury.