## Overview Capped hock is distention of the subcutaneous bursa or formation of an acquired bursa over the point of the hock (tuber calcanei). It results from repetitive trauma such as kicking stall walls or trailer doors. The swelling is usually cosmetic and not associated with lameness unless infection or deeper synovial involvement occurs. ## Causes Repeated contusion or pressure is the primary cause. A single severe blow can also initiate the swelling. Penetrating wounds may introduce infection. ## Diagnosis The characteristic soft or firm enlargement exactly over the point of the hock is diagnostic. Ultrasound distinguishes simple bursal fluid from abscess or involvement of the calcaneal bursa. ## Treatment Protect the area from further trauma. Cold therapy, bandaging, and anti-inflammatories reduce acute swelling. Chronic fibrous enlargements often persist. Infected bursae require drainage and antibiotics. ## Recovery and Prognosis Prognosis for soundness is excellent when the swelling is purely subcutaneous. Cosmetic blemishes frequently remain. Septic cases have a more guarded outlook. ## Prevention Padding stall walls, using hock boots during transport, and addressing behavioral kicking reduce recurrence.
soft or firm swelling over the point of the hock; usually no lameness; heat in acute cases; possible draining tract if infected
## Overview Capped hock is distention of the subcutaneous bursa or formation of an acquired bursa over the point of the hock (tuber calcanei). It results from repetitive trauma such as kicking stall walls or trailer doors. The swelling is usually cosmetic and not associated with lameness unless infection or deeper synovial involvement occurs. ## Causes Repeated contusion or pressure is the primary cause. A single severe blow can also initiate the swelling. Penetrating wounds may introduce infection. ## Diagnosis The characteristic soft or firm enlargement exactly over the point of the hock is diagnostic. Ultrasound distinguishes simple bursal fluid from abscess or involvement of the calcaneal bursa. ## Treatment Protect the area from further trauma. Cold therapy, bandaging, and anti-inflammatories reduce acute swelling. Chronic fibrous enlargements often persist. Infected bursae require drainage and antibiotics. ## Recovery and Prognosis Prognosis for soundness is excellent when the swelling is purely subcutaneous. Cosmetic blemishes frequently remain. Septic cases have a more guarded outlook. ## Prevention Padding stall walls, using hock boots during transport, and addressing behavioral kicking reduce recurrence.
soft or firm swelling over the point of the hock; usually no lameness; heat in acute cases; possible draining tract if infected