208 THE PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE. 



limb, which is not extended as freely as usual by any means. 

 There may be observed a slight swelling, due to the presence 

 of an exudate. The swelling extends down the anterior 

 aspect of the metacarpal bone, and gives it a slightly curved 

 appearance. There is a considerable amount of heat 

 present, and the most delicate manipulation of the parts 

 will cause the animal to flinch, as the pain of sore shins 

 is most excruciating; so severe is it that in some 

 cases simply pointing at the limb or attempting to pick 

 up the foot, will cause the animal to run back. During 

 progression the animal drops very much in his action. 

 Another peculiarity of the lameness is that where it is slight 

 the animal will Avarm out of it, and where it is severe 

 exercise will mitigate it. In some cases the trouble may be 

 below the fetlock joint, and in connection with the 

 OS suflfraginis. If the condition be neglected, and the exciting 

 cause kept up, the exudate may increase in quantity, and 

 finally become organized. Thickening of the periosteum, 

 may occur, and the slightly curved appearance mentioned 

 above may become permanent, but lameness ceases, and 

 it does not constitute an unsoundness. 



Treatment. — The treatment of sore shins should commence 

 from the very earliest appearance of the trouble. Absolute 

 rest is essential. In a case that is, or promises to be, severe, 

 the inflammatory action may be lessened by the administra- 

 tion of a laxative, which may be followed by diuretics. If 

 the food has been of a stimulating character, change it, and 

 give a cooling diet. Where the pain seems to be very severe, 

 long-continued fomentations will do much to relieve it ; or 

 anodyne applications, as spts., camphorae, tr. opii, tr. aconite, 

 pars equale, may be applied. A free use of refrigerants, as 

 ice, or spring w^ater, or water turned on from a hose, is of 

 very great benefit in the majority of cases, allaying pain and 

 fever. Plumbi acet. in solution is also of benefit. After 



