By a sprained fetlock-joint is generally understood a stretching or rupture of some or all of the ligaments which unite the bones, but a not infrequent result or concomitant of such strain is inflammation of the capsular ligament and the synovial membrane which lines its interior. These injuries are perhaps in the majority of cases incurred by slipping when travelling over smooth surfaces, by treading on rolling stones or in rabbit holes, by false steps, in jumping, or in the case of draught-horses in starting heavy loads.

More or less heat, pain, and swelling in the joint, with a corresponding degree of lameness, will usually direct our attention to the structures involved. In very slight cases no perceptible change may be at once observed in the part, but a little passive movement of the joint in the direction of flexion and extension, if applied with moderate force, will have the effect of locating the injury. Where the joint itself is concerned the swelling will present here and there an elastic fluctuating character indicating the presence of an excess of fluid in the articular capsule.

Treatment

The frequent application of evaporating lotions over the seat of injury, combined with rest and an aloetic purge, will usually suffice in mild cases. In the more severe strains, inducing acute inflammation of the structures of the joint, with its attendant pain and enlargement, hot fomentations should be promptly and freely applied until the inflammatory symptoms subside. After each fomentation flannel bandages should be placed upon the joint and repeatedly wrung out in hot water.

Absolute rest and quiet is imperative in this form of injury, and. when necessary, advantage should be taken of slinging in order to enable the patient to relieve the injured part of weight. A period of cold-water irrigation, and then blistering or firing, or both, conjoined with a long rest in a soft damp meadow, will reduce existing enlargement, and. if practicable, complete the cure.