## Overview Effusion of the extensor tendon sheath on the dorsal hock produces a soft, fluctuant swelling. It is often idiopathic and cosmetic, but can accompany distal tarsal osteoarthritis or other hock pathology when lameness is present. ## Causes Idiopathic synovial effusion or secondary to joint disease or strain. ## Diagnosis Palpation and ultrasound. Lameness examination determines whether the effusion is clinically significant. ## Treatment Observation if the horse is sound. Drainage, injection, or treatment of underlying hock disease if lame. ## Recovery and Prognosis Excellent for cosmetic, non-painful effusion. Depends on associated joint disease if lame. ## Prevention None specific.
soft fluctuant swelling on the front of the hock; usually painless; may accompany hock lameness
## Overview Effusion of the extensor tendon sheath on the dorsal hock produces a soft, fluctuant swelling. It is often idiopathic and cosmetic, but can accompany distal tarsal osteoarthritis or other hock pathology when lameness is present. ## Causes Idiopathic synovial effusion or secondary to joint disease or strain. ## Diagnosis Palpation and ultrasound. Lameness examination determines whether the effusion is clinically significant. ## Treatment Observation if the horse is sound. Drainage, injection, or treatment of underlying hock disease if lame. ## Recovery and Prognosis Excellent for cosmetic, non-painful effusion. Depends on associated joint disease if lame. ## Prevention None specific.
soft fluctuant swelling on the front of the hock; usually painless; may accompany hock lameness