Stiff fetlock - thoughts/experience

[spacefaer]

We've got a 13yr old horse who is pretty low mileage . Over the last few years the farrier has commented that his left hind fetlock has reduced flexibility. Until recently, this stiffness has not been visible but it now becoming slightly apparent when he trots/canters.

Has anyone got any thoughts/experience of this sort of lameness? He's had no injury and has no windgalls.

 

[ihatework]

Have you xrayed the joint?

 

[spacefaer]

No. It hasn't been an issue until he's come back into work this summer. He is sound - he's just using it differently

 

[ihatework]

Well it's one of those that you either turn a blind eye to or look to spend a bit of money on to try and find out what you are dealing with.

Personal choice I suppose. If it were my horse is likely X-ray to check for arthritic changes, and treat accordingly if that is what it is.

 

[spacefaer]

We'll get him checked don't worry - I was just wondering if anyone has any experience of anything similar. There's no heat, pain or swelling which I would have expected with arthritic changes.

ETA I'm not expecting an online diagnosis, just an informal chat!