Distal tarsal osteoarthritis

Overview

## Overview Distal tarsal osteoarthritis, commonly called bone spavin, is degenerative joint disease of the lower hock joints (distal intertarsal and tarsometatarsal joints). It is a frequent cause of hind-limb lameness in performance horses. Affected horses show stiffness, shortened stride, and positive flexion tests. ## Causes Repetitive loading, conformational faults (straight or sickle hocks), and age-related cartilage wear. ## Diagnosis Lameness examination, hock flexion test, diagnostic analgesia, and radiographs showing osteophytes, joint-space narrowing, or ankylosis. ## Treatment Intra-articular corticosteroids or other medications, systemic anti-inflammatories, corrective shoeing, and workload adjustment. Many horses improve and remain useful. ## Recovery and Prognosis Fair to good for comfort and lower-level work. Advanced cases may require ongoing management. ## Prevention Balanced shoeing and sensible training. Early treatment of stiffness.

Signs & Symptoms

hind-limb stiffness; shortened stride; positive hock flexion; reluctance to collect or engage the hindquarters; radiographic changes in the lower hock joints

Affected Structures

• First & Second Tarsal Bones (Right, fused)
• Third Tarsal Bone (Right)
• First & Second Tarsal Bones (Left, fused)
• Third Tarsal Bone (Left)

Frequently Asked Questions