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I have an eighteen yr old, 1500 pound dressage horse who has been diagnosed through radiographs with moderate osteoarthritis in both hocks. He was treated one month ago with corticosteriod injections and followup with daily previcox. There is no visible lameness, and he is full of energy, acting like a colt. One hock is slightly puffy. I am wondering if that is normal with his condition, or should I call the vet again?
Optional Information: Type of Animal: Horse Gender: Male Age: 17 Name of Horse: ZSIR Already Tried: Radiographs/Clinical Exam Corticosteriod injections Daily Previcox
Welcome to Just Answer! I'm Dr. Hinson and I'd like to help you with your question.I would consider the puffiness you are describing as normal. If there was a significant problem he would be significantly lame.My suggestion is to just monitor that hock and if the swelling gets significantly worse, he becomes lame, runs a fever, or stops eating then I would call the vet.Sounds like you are doing everything right!Let me know if you have more questions!
Experience: 11+ years experience in the veterinary field. Former trainer of show and race horses.
Should the hock be wrapped and/or cooled with cold water?
You can do that but the hock is very hard to wrap appropriately and if you don't do it correctly you can cause more damage. Cold hosing is fine (10 minutes twice a day) and you can use a poultice on it but really, it likely won't help for this specific condition.