## Overview Injury at the costochondral junction (where rib bone meets cartilage) can occur from trauma or repetitive strain. It produces localized pain, swelling, and sometimes a palpable step or instability. Horses may show reluctance to bend laterally or sensitivity when the girth is tightened. ## Causes Blunt trauma, falls, or chronic overload from asymmetrical work. ## Diagnosis Palpation elicits focal pain. Ultrasound or radiographs evaluate the junction. Other causes of girthiness are excluded. ## Treatment Rest, anti-inflammatories, and gradual return to work. Severe instability is rare and managed supportively. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good for most traumatic injuries with adequate rest. ## Prevention Trauma avoidance and balanced training.
focal pain at the rib-cartilage junction; swelling; sensitivity to girthing; reluctance to bend
## Overview Injury at the costochondral junction (where rib bone meets cartilage) can occur from trauma or repetitive strain. It produces localized pain, swelling, and sometimes a palpable step or instability. Horses may show reluctance to bend laterally or sensitivity when the girth is tightened. ## Causes Blunt trauma, falls, or chronic overload from asymmetrical work. ## Diagnosis Palpation elicits focal pain. Ultrasound or radiographs evaluate the junction. Other causes of girthiness are excluded. ## Treatment Rest, anti-inflammatories, and gradual return to work. Severe instability is rare and managed supportively. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good for most traumatic injuries with adequate rest. ## Prevention Trauma avoidance and balanced training.
focal pain at the rib-cartilage junction; swelling; sensitivity to girthing; reluctance to bend