Swelling/stiffness above fetlock joint but not lame?

Can anyone help me work out what to do? My 18 Y/O ID had some discomfort picking his hind leg up for the farrier on Tuesday, but I didn't make too much of it as it was early morning and he is a 17'3 who takes a while to loosen up! I rode him last night and he seemed OK, not perfect as a little stiff behind. This morning I went to pick out his feet and he struggled to lift the same leg - he took it out to the side instead of lifting straight up which was a bit odd. I felt around the fetlock and it was warm and a little swollen above the joint (to the rear).

I have turned him out after hosing it down and had to come to work. Not sure if it is something I need to call the vet out for - he isn't lame, but I don't want to leave it too long if he is in pain?

Sods law that I have finally convinced hubby to buy me a trailer which we are picking up tomorrow and I have our 2nd show ever on Sunday (showing), pre-paid into 3 classes etc etc!!

I don't want to not do the right thing here, so I wonder if this is something that might just settle down. As he isn't lame does that mean he isn't in pain?

Thanks to anyone in advance who has some advice.
 
S

scotsmare

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If he's not comfortable then he probably has a little pain. Has he had his back checked recently? I take it there's no cut / wound on the fetlock joint? It might be worth a chat with your vet and see if he thinks he needs to come out sooner rather than later.
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Have just spoken to the vet who has been fantastic - says that given his history and age etc it is more likely to be wear and tear and/or windgalls. Has suggested keeping him in overnight after 20 min hosing and stable bandaging for a couple of days and then trot him up on Sat to see how he is doing before totally dismissing the show on Sunday. They suggest coming out to see him soon to look at whether having him on daily bute might make his old bones more comfortable longer term, but don't think this particular scenario sounds too worrying.
 
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