Equine Ailments: A Tender Bump on the Back Leg

As a horse owner, you have likely become accustomed to your horse's propensity for bumps, scratches and scrapes. Most of these are not cause for concern, but any time you notice an issue on your horse's limbs or joints, you should monitor any pain, lameness or changes. There are several possible causes of a tender bump on your horse's hind leg; if possible, ask your veterinarian to confirm any suspicious bumps if you are uncertain of the source or cause, or if it is near a joint.

  1. Hematoma

    • Just about any type of bump or kick can cause a hematoma. The spot will likely feel warm and be filled with fluid. A hematoma usually resolves itself and disappears but it can take several weeks or even a month. You can apply an ice pack to the area, or use a cold hose once or twice a day. This may help the swelling and provide relief to your horse. Contact your veterinarian if it becomes larger, and do not attempt to drain it yourself.

    Abscess

    • According to veterinarian Janet Roark of Austin, Texas, an abscess is another possible explanation for a tender bump, particularly if it is on the muscular part of the leg. It could have formed due to a foreign object, such as a splinter, and means there is an infection. Eventually it should rupture and drain pus, but until then it is likely to be painful or sore. Some veterinarians might prescribe an antibiotic after the abscess ruptures. Contact your veterinarian to get the proper treatment for your horse.

    Insect Bite

    • A particularly bad insect bite could be the source of a tender bump on your horse.

      According to Roark, some horses are extremely sensitive to insect bites, or it could be a particularly bad bite from a bee or wasp. If your horse acts like the spot itches you can apply an anti-itch topical cream, such as a cortisone or tea tree ointment. Monitor your horse's behavior to make sure it is not running a fever and is eating and behaving normally.

    Splint

    • If the bump is in the lower area of the leg, in the cannon bone area, it could be a splint. Young horses in particularly, between the ages of two and five, often "pop a splint," although it occurs more frequently in the front legs than the hind. While the bump associated with a popped splint will be sensitive at first, once the ligament ossifies, or hardens, any pain and associated lameness will disappear.