Windgalls

[Zobaby]

I think my gelding has windgalls. He has large swollen bits on both the outside and inside of his near hind fetlock and a little bit on the off hind which are kind of 'squidgey' to touch and feel like they're full of fluid. Are these windgalls? If they are, how are they caused and what can I do to get rid of them? If not, what are they?! He's stiff on the near hind and slightly lame on it, so have obviously stopped riding (hasn't been ridden since Thurs when I noticed it) and have been cold hosing them for 15 mins today and yesterday.
Thanks

x

 

[Dressagebabe]

It sounds like windgalls, unfortunately they are usually there to stay!! sometimes reduce in size after rest but they can be a pain as they can cause intermitent lameness. They are caused by several things, bad foot shape, concussion, obesity, too much hard road work. Some horses cope ok with them but you need to make sure he is not overweight as it will make him lame with them.

 

[MagicMelon]

One of mine gets them on his front legs. He developed them 2 years ago during a particularily hard-grounded summer. They seem to go down in the winter, like they're fine right now still but they usually puff up as work increases and the ground gets harder. He's (touch wood) never been lame with them. But I do cold hose his legs after any hard work and also make sure to cool them down after XC etc.

 

[poiuytrewq]

I purchased my horse with a large windgall on his hind leg which he failed the vetting on. Its been there 2 years and never caused a problem (according to old owner) My vet spoke to their vet aswell so i think this is the truth.
My farrier has shod him slightly differently giving the heel extra support- I think this is how he explained it and the swelling has decreased in size. Maybe its worth having a word with your farrier?