## Overview Stress fractures of the ilium are incomplete pelvic cracks from repetitive loading in racehorses. They cause hind-limb lameness that worsens with exercise and may present only as poor performance. Scintigraphy is the diagnostic method of choice. Strict stall rest is required because muscle pull can propagate the fracture. ## Causes Cyclical loading. ## Diagnosis Bone scan. Ultrasound may detect more advanced cracks. ## Treatment Complete stall rest, often 60 days or more. Hand-walking is usually avoided. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good if rested before complete fracture. ## Prevention Training monitoring.
hind-limb lameness worse with exercise; poor performance; diagnosed on bone scan; no obvious trauma
## Overview Stress fractures of the ilium are incomplete pelvic cracks from repetitive loading in racehorses. They cause hind-limb lameness that worsens with exercise and may present only as poor performance. Scintigraphy is the diagnostic method of choice. Strict stall rest is required because muscle pull can propagate the fracture. ## Causes Cyclical loading. ## Diagnosis Bone scan. Ultrasound may detect more advanced cracks. ## Treatment Complete stall rest, often 60 days or more. Hand-walking is usually avoided. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good if rested before complete fracture. ## Prevention Training monitoring.
hind-limb lameness worse with exercise; poor performance; diagnosed on bone scan; no obvious trauma