DISTENSION OF THE SYNOVIAL CAPSULE OF THE FETLOCK JOINT.
The synovial capsule of the fetlock joint in the ox is strongly supported in front and at the sides, but may protrude under the anterior ligament, producing a swelling behind the metacarpus under the five branches of division of the suspensory ligament and slightly below the sesamoid bones. These distensions, like bursal swellings, are commoner in hind limbs and in old working oxen. Their development is always followed in time by a certain degree of knuckling over. At first the metacarpus and phalanges come to form a straight line, but later the fetlock joint itself is thrust forward.
The diagnosis necessitates careful manual examination of the region of the fetlock joint.
The prognosis is somewhat grave, for the disease sooner or later necessitates the destruction of certain animals.
Treatment is practically identical with that used in all such conditions: friction with camphorated alcohol, cold affusions and massage in the earlier stages, followed if needful by blisters or firing in points.
DISTENSION OF TENDON SHEATHS.
Distension of the synovial capsule which surrounds the superior suspensory ligament, like distension of the articular capsule of the fetlock, occurs in working animals, and most commonly affects the front limbs. It is indicated by two swellings, one situated on either side of and behind the branches of division of the suspensory ligament and in front of the flexor tendons. These two swellings extend higher than the articular swellings, which, however, they sometimes accompany. The surface of the fetlock is then swollen, doughy on pressure, and somewhat painful.
These enlargements may produce more or less marked lameness and cause knuckling.
The diagnosis is clear from local examination.
The prognosis is unfavourable, as the animals after a time become useless for work.