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
Annular Ligament Disease, Palmar or Plantar
Summary
A transverse sheet of tissue called the annular ligament lies over the flexor tendons at the level of the fetlock joint on both front and hind limbs. When this ligament is inflamed or injured, it can contribute to pain and lameness by constricting the flexor tendons and flexor tendon sheath in the fetlock. Lameness associated with this constriction can be mild to moderate and usually worsens with exercise.
A key characteristic of this problem is a bubble of swelling that abruptly cinches in at the annular ligament. However, often the annular ligament is only part of the problem. The flexor tendons within the tendon sheath may be injured as well. Radiographs and ultrasound should be performed to refine the diagnosis.
A key characteristic of this problem is a bubble of swelling that abruptly cinches in at the annular ligament. However, often the annular ligament is only part of the problem. The flexor tendons within the tendon sheath may be injured as well. Radiographs and ultrasound should be performed to refine the diagnosis.
my vet's role
Diagnostics Used
These are tests that might be helpful to make this diagnosis or further characterize the condition.
Treatments May Include
These treatments might be used to help resolve or improve this condition.
Very Common
PROGNOSIS AND RELEVANT FACTORS
Prognosis depends on whether annular ligament thickening is primary or secondary, and the existence of another, secondary injury.my role
I might observe
You might make these observations when a horse has this condition.
Questions To Ask Your Vet:
- Is there another underlying problem?
- Is the annular ligament constriction primary or secondary?
- Is the annular ligament thickened on ultrasound?
- How much do you think that annular ligament resection will help the lameness?
Prevention
Maintain good hoof care. Ensure horse's fitness is compatible with performance expectation.