Swelling on pastern - Ringbone?

[Ravenwood]

A couple of days ago we noticed one of the mares was lame. Very slightly, can hardly tell which leg but more noticeable going down hill. We gave her a few days off and I took her out again but she is still slightly lame and looks uncomfortable, hanging back.

This morning I have noticed a small swelling on her off fore pastern, about an inch above the coronet and on the outside. It is round and firm but squishy - a bit like a windgall (of which she also has).

Does anyone know what the first sings of ringbone are - would it be similar to this?

 

[Fruddy]

Don't think this is ringbone. Ringbone is arthritis of the pasterns, my lad has it. First signs are pottery lameness, usually on both fore feet. No other outward symptoms or signs, usually diagnosed by nerve blocks and x-rays.

Bit stumped as to what the swelling is - maybe a bite of some sort?

Hope it improves soon.

 

[ladyt25]

Doesn't sound like ringbone. I would be more inclined to think a knock of some kind to be honest. Have you checked there's no actual wound as could be a puncture injury and maybe a bit infected?

 

[Ravenwood]

Phew - I always over react!

Can't find any sign of an injury and is not your usual bite type swelling. No heat anywhere and I have banged her sole but no reaction - although I realise that's not conclusive of an abcess.

 

[spottybotty]

it could possibly a quitor.

 

[Ravenwood]

Have just Googled Quittor - sounds hideous! Hope to God its not that although it does say its rarely seen nowadays and usually affect draft horses - which she isn't.