## Overview Quadriceps strain is injury to the large muscle group on the front of the thigh that extends the stifle. High-demand activities such as racing, jumping, or steep hill work can strain it, especially in unfit horses. Signs include a shortened hind-limb stride, reluctance to extend the stifle, difficulty going downhill, and swelling or pain over the anterior thigh. ## Causes Acute overload or overuse. ## Diagnosis Palpation and ultrasound of the quadriceps. ## Treatment Rest, anti-inflammatories, and gradual rehabilitation. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good for most strains. ## Prevention Progressive conditioning.
shortened hind-limb stride; reluctance to extend the stifle; difficulty going downhill; swelling over the anterior thigh; pain on palpation
## Overview Quadriceps strain is injury to the large muscle group on the front of the thigh that extends the stifle. High-demand activities such as racing, jumping, or steep hill work can strain it, especially in unfit horses. Signs include a shortened hind-limb stride, reluctance to extend the stifle, difficulty going downhill, and swelling or pain over the anterior thigh. ## Causes Acute overload or overuse. ## Diagnosis Palpation and ultrasound of the quadriceps. ## Treatment Rest, anti-inflammatories, and gradual rehabilitation. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good for most strains. ## Prevention Progressive conditioning.
shortened hind-limb stride; reluctance to extend the stifle; difficulty going downhill; swelling over the anterior thigh; pain on palpation