## Overview Injury to the hamstring complex (semitendinosus, semimembranosus, biceps femoris) produces severe hind-limb lameness, swelling, and pain in the caudal thigh. Bruising may be visible on the inner thigh. Recovery is prolonged. ## Causes Overstretching, slips, kicks, or acute overload. ## Diagnosis Palpation of pain and swelling, ultrasound of the muscle bellies, and exclusion of fracture. ## Treatment Rest, anti-inflammatories, cold therapy initially, then controlled rehabilitation and physiotherapy. Severe tears may leave residual fibrosis. ## Recovery and Prognosis Fair to good with time. Fibrotic myopathy can develop as a sequela. ## Prevention Conditioning and safe footing.
severe hind-limb lameness; swollen painful caudal thigh; reluctance to move; possible bruising on the inner thigh
## Overview Injury to the hamstring complex (semitendinosus, semimembranosus, biceps femoris) produces severe hind-limb lameness, swelling, and pain in the caudal thigh. Bruising may be visible on the inner thigh. Recovery is prolonged. ## Causes Overstretching, slips, kicks, or acute overload. ## Diagnosis Palpation of pain and swelling, ultrasound of the muscle bellies, and exclusion of fracture. ## Treatment Rest, anti-inflammatories, cold therapy initially, then controlled rehabilitation and physiotherapy. Severe tears may leave residual fibrosis. ## Recovery and Prognosis Fair to good with time. Fibrotic myopathy can develop as a sequela. ## Prevention Conditioning and safe footing.
severe hind-limb lameness; swollen painful caudal thigh; reluctance to move; possible bruising on the inner thigh