## Overview Pectoral bruising from the girth occurs when a poorly fitted or overly tight girth compresses the pectoral muscles behind the elbow. It causes girth sores, reluctance to be girthed, a shortened forelimb stride, and behavioral resistance during saddling. ## Causes Girth placed too far forward or fastened too tightly. ## Diagnosis Visual sores or swelling in the girth area and improvement when girth fit is corrected. ## Treatment Rest from riding, wound care for sores, and refitting the girth or using a girth cover. Ensure the girth sits in the natural girth groove. ## Recovery and Prognosis Excellent once pressure is removed. ## Prevention Proper girth fit and gradual tightening.
girth sores behind the elbow; reluctance to girth up; shortened forelimb stride; swelling in the girth area
## Overview Pectoral bruising from the girth occurs when a poorly fitted or overly tight girth compresses the pectoral muscles behind the elbow. It causes girth sores, reluctance to be girthed, a shortened forelimb stride, and behavioral resistance during saddling. ## Causes Girth placed too far forward or fastened too tightly. ## Diagnosis Visual sores or swelling in the girth area and improvement when girth fit is corrected. ## Treatment Rest from riding, wound care for sores, and refitting the girth or using a girth cover. Ensure the girth sits in the natural girth groove. ## Recovery and Prognosis Excellent once pressure is removed. ## Prevention Proper girth fit and gradual tightening.
girth sores behind the elbow; reluctance to girth up; shortened forelimb stride; swelling in the girth area