## Overview Tarsal sheath effusion, known as thoroughpin, is fluid accumulation in the sheath surrounding the deep digital flexor tendon as it passes through the hock. It appears as a soft swelling on both sides of the hock. Many cases are idiopathic and cause no lameness. Others indicate deeper pathology. ## Causes Idiopathic, trauma, or associated tendon or hock disease. ## Diagnosis Clinical appearance and ultrasound to assess the tendon. ## Treatment None if the horse is sound. Address underlying tendon injury if present. ## Recovery and Prognosis Excellent for idiopathic cases. ## Prevention None specific.
soft swelling on both sides of the hock; may or may not cause lameness
## Overview Tarsal sheath effusion, known as thoroughpin, is fluid accumulation in the sheath surrounding the deep digital flexor tendon as it passes through the hock. It appears as a soft swelling on both sides of the hock. Many cases are idiopathic and cause no lameness. Others indicate deeper pathology. ## Causes Idiopathic, trauma, or associated tendon or hock disease. ## Diagnosis Clinical appearance and ultrasound to assess the tendon. ## Treatment None if the horse is sound. Address underlying tendon injury if present. ## Recovery and Prognosis Excellent for idiopathic cases. ## Prevention None specific.
soft swelling on both sides of the hock; may or may not cause lameness