This accident occurs in resisting over-extension of the superficial flexor muscle of the fore-limb when undue weight is imposed upon it (fig. 354).

Symptoms

Besides lameness, there is heat, swelling, and tenderness just above and behind the knee-joint, with more or less inability to bear weight on the affected limb. In severe cases the leg is advanced some-what stiffly and with as little bending of the knee as possible.

Treatment

In slight cases the frequent application to the part of a cooling lotion, consisting of chloride of ammonium and nitrate of potash dissolved in water, with the addition of spirits of wine and acetic acid, conjoined with rest, may suffice to bring about a cure. In sprain of a more severe character hot fomentations, followed by counter-irritation or blistering and in some cases even firing, may be called for. A dose of physic to cool the system, and a grass diet if available, are useful adjuncts to the measures prescribed.