266 THE PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE. 



be freely used. Anodyne applications are also useful here 

 to allay pain, and when all irritation has ceased vesicants 

 should be used, the best in case there is any enlarge- 

 ment being the unguentum hydrarg. biniod. applied 

 in the usual way, and of the usual strength. A vesicant 

 properly and judiciously applied will tend to prevent the 

 organization of the exudate, and when it is already organ- 

 ized will tend to remove it. If used too soon, however, it 

 will do great harm. Firing is not to be recommended, 

 except in certain rare cases, as it usually does more harm 

 than good. 



Tendons, Bruise of. — The tendons are occasionally bruised, 

 but not sprained, by the animal striking himself during 

 a gallop, or another horse striking him. 



Sym])toms. — The pain and lameness are usually very great, 

 the inflammation is superficial to the tendon, and is often 

 mistaken for a break down. There is also some swelling, 

 heat, etc. 



Treatment. — Endeavour to remove all irritation in the 

 usual way, after which apply a mild stimulating liniment, 

 or slight counter-irritation may be employed. In sprain of 

 the metacarpal ligament or the flexor tendons, the animal 

 should be rested for a long time— six months, or a year if 

 necessary — as if he gets sufficient time in which to rest, a 

 complete recovery will take place, and he will be able to 

 do any amount of work afterward as Avell as ever ; but it 

 put to work too soon he may go all right for a while, then 

 break down irreparably. 



Contraction of the Tendons. — Contraction of a tendon 

 consists of a shortening of the affected structure, causing the 

 leg to be bowed more or less, in proportion to the amount 

 of contraction that has taken place. 



Causes. — Contraction may occur in consequence of any 

 injury to the tendon, as laceration, blows, cuts, etc. 



