88 THE SURGICAL ANATOMY OF THE HORSE 



less difficult on account of the greater prominence given to this bone. 

 The animal is down, since of course it cannot stand, and is unable to 

 rise. 



Pain is evinced on palpation in the middle line. 



Exploration by the rectum will confirm the alteration in position of 

 the sacrum. 



Prognosis is not favourable. If it is decided to treat, all that can be 

 done is to prescribe a long rest. The animal should be allowed to lie, 

 with a plentiful supply of bedding. 



THE ISCHIO-PUBIC SYMPHYSIS 



This is the articulation of the coxas which become united to each 

 other along the inner border of the pubis and ischium. 



In the early period of life this joint is of the amphiarthrodial variety 

 since the bones are united by an interosseous cartilage and peripheral 

 fibres. The fibres run transversely from the pubic and ischial bones of 

 one side of the body to those on the other, on their superior and 

 inferior surfaces. Those on the inferior aspect are much the more 

 powerful. Assistance is also afforded in the maintaining of the bones in 

 apposition by the pubio-femoral ligaments, which will be described in 

 connection with the hip joint. 



In adult life the interosseous cartilage becomes ossified, and the two 

 coxae become firmly united. 



It will thus be evident that there is no movement at the symphysis 

 during adult life, and that movement is very restricted during the early 

 period. 



THE COXO-FEMORAL OR HIP JOINT 



This joint is of the enarthrodial or ball and socket variety, and con- 

 sequently permits of flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, rotation. 



