## Overview Calcanean tendon disruption refers to partial or complete rupture or severe strain of the common calcaneal tendon (primarily the gastrocnemius component) or its insertion on the tuber calcanei. The injury produces a dropped hock appearance and severe hind-limb lameness because the horse can no longer extend the hock effectively. It is uncommon but career-threatening. ## Causes Acute overload during slipping, jumping, or traumatic hyperextension of the hock is the usual mechanism. Degenerative change may predispose older horses. ## Diagnosis Characteristic dropped hock, inability to bear weight normally, swelling, and pain at the point of the hock or along the tendon are diagnostic. Ultrasound confirms fiber disruption and the degree of rupture. Radiographs rule out avulsion fractures. ## Treatment Complete ruptures generally require surgical repair or tenorrhaphy when feasible, followed by prolonged immobilization. Partial tears may be managed with extended rest and controlled rehabilitation. Supportive bandaging or casting protects the repair. ## Recovery and Prognosis Prognosis is guarded to poor for return to athletic use after complete disruption. Partial injuries have a better outlook with lengthy rehabilitation. Many horses are retired to pasture. ## Prevention No specific prevention beyond minimizing traumatic incidents and maintaining good conditioning.
severe hindlimb lameness; dropped hock appearance; swelling at the point of the hock or along the Achilles tendon; inability to extend the hock
## Overview Calcanean tendon disruption refers to partial or complete rupture or severe strain of the common calcaneal tendon (primarily the gastrocnemius component) or its insertion on the tuber calcanei. The injury produces a dropped hock appearance and severe hind-limb lameness because the horse can no longer extend the hock effectively. It is uncommon but career-threatening. ## Causes Acute overload during slipping, jumping, or traumatic hyperextension of the hock is the usual mechanism. Degenerative change may predispose older horses. ## Diagnosis Characteristic dropped hock, inability to bear weight normally, swelling, and pain at the point of the hock or along the tendon are diagnostic. Ultrasound confirms fiber disruption and the degree of rupture. Radiographs rule out avulsion fractures. ## Treatment Complete ruptures generally require surgical repair or tenorrhaphy when feasible, followed by prolonged immobilization. Partial tears may be managed with extended rest and controlled rehabilitation. Supportive bandaging or casting protects the repair. ## Recovery and Prognosis Prognosis is guarded to poor for return to athletic use after complete disruption. Partial injuries have a better outlook with lengthy rehabilitation. Many horses are retired to pasture. ## Prevention No specific prevention beyond minimizing traumatic incidents and maintaining good conditioning.
severe hindlimb lameness; dropped hock appearance; swelling at the point of the hock or along the Achilles tendon; inability to extend the hock