Equine Orthopaedics and Rheumatology Q&A 21

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A foal was unable to stand at birth. When it tried to use its forelimbs it always knuckled forward. On manipulation, it was difficult to extend the phalanges beyond the vertical axis.

Question	Answer		Article
What is the most likely diagnosis?	Congenital flexural deformity of the metacarpophalangeal and/or distal interphalangeal joints in both forelimbs.		Link to Article
List the various options available for treatment of this condition.	Intravenous administration of 1g tetracycline in 500 ml Ringer’s solution to chelate calcium ions and facilitate relaxation of the tense flexor muscles. Application of splints for about two weeks to allow relaxation of the flexor muscles and facilitate correction of the problem. Application of toe extensions to the feet to extend the weight-bearing surface further dorsally. In this case the foal was immediately able to bear weight on its limbs. Exercise then helps to stretch the shortened flexor tendons. This can obviously be combined with intravenous administration of tetracyclines. However, in some foals, the application of toe extensions will make the flexural deformities in the metacarpophalangeal joints worse. In such cases, the deformities of the metacarpophalangeal joints should be corrected, with splints, and the distal interphalangeal joints corrected at a later date.		Link to Article