Horse Hock Arthritis

Arthritis can be a debilitating condition for a horse, especially since its legs bear so much weight. Arthritis doesn't always have to be the end of a horse's career or comfort, however. Work with your veterinarian to diagnose your horse's lameness and to determine which treatment options are best suited for its needs.

  1. Arthritis

    • Arthritis is a degenerative wearing down of joint cartilage. This can cause joints to thicken and bones to rub against each other, which results in pain.

    The Hock

    • A horse's hock is a common location for arthritis; not only is the hock a major joint of the hind leg, but it is made up of four joints and eleven bones.

    Symptoms

    • Hock arthritis can cause a horse to display signs of a change in gait and stride, pain or stiffness.

    Diagnosis

    • Your veterinarian can perform an exam and diagnostic tests on your horse, such as watching your horse move, performing flexion tests and giving the animal a radiograph.

    Treatment

    • Treatment options includes injections of steroids or joint lubricants, medication (for both pain relief and swelling reduction) and surgery.