LAMENESS/LIMPING AFTER FALL

[Jodie4664]

I was out riding my 16.2 on our local common on Sunday 08/10/06 when he slipped over on his side in canter. He got up and limped off and has a small cut behind his elbow. He seems to be sound but every so often his leg seems to give way/buckle in his felock area, as though he can't take his full weight. This is mainly first thing when I get him out of the stable. He is still galloping round the field like a maniac, so I asume it is not serious, prob just a strain. Any advice appreciated.

 

[Tia]

Sounds like just a strain but keep an eye on him in case it does develop into a lameness problem. I expect a few days of field rest and he will be good as new.

 

[BenjaminBunny]

Could be a ligament problem.....

get it checked out if it carries on

they can still charge around like loons with this problem

 

[Peanot]

Is there any heat in the fetlock area?
He could`ve twisted his fetlock especially if he fell to that side. It could`ve slipped and given way in the canter causing him to fall. Its similar to us twisting our ankles and it giving way. It is quite painful sometimes over the next few days following the injury, until it gets stronger. But as the fibres are stretched around the area, if we were to just put it down a bit wrong, then it hurts and we limp for a step or two. This is just the same with horses.
Just for the time being, I would turn him out with support on both front legs just to help and support it, from below the knee to down over the fetlock joint. It just has to strengthen again. If it was a worse twist, then he would be slightly lame, then the vets would probably suggest 1-2 weeks box rest with support but as he is not lame, he probably doesn`t need box rest. I hope this is of some use to you, but without seeing him trotted up, it is hard to say. I am not a vet so this is just my advice as I have dealt with twisted fetlocks over the years, and the vets instructions worked.