256 Local Injuries. 



forms, or pyro -puncture may be tried. Large splints may 

 need excision by means of the bone forceps; and a 

 leather boot will be required. 



OPEN JOINTS. The escape of synovia by reason of 

 punctures and other forms of injury to joints is often a 

 serious state. The life of the animal is greatly jeopar- 

 dised. 



Treatment. Early closing of the orifice is all important. 

 This may be sometimes done rapidly by means of the 

 hot iron, at a dull red heat only, providing the wound is 

 simply cut open, not bruised by a fall, &c. A small 

 amount of blister ointment applied round the orifice also 

 hastens the process. Constitutional remedies will be 

 required when acute fever is present ; this should not be 

 delayed. Put the animal in the slings also. When these 

 means fail, the application of dry astringent powders 

 should be tried, as a mixture of alum, oxide of zinc, &c., 

 with wheat flour, by means of a strong worsted stocking 

 passed up the leg and packed moderately tight. Put a 

 splint to the back of the limb, and stop all motion of the 

 joint, and when the wound is examined for cleansing and 

 renewal of the powder, dress freely with astringent lotions. 

 Much patience is required. The first token of success is 

 a diminution of the local discharge, as well as severity of 

 the systemic disturbance. 



Sprain or Strain. This is essentially a severe exten- 

 sion of the fibres of muscle or ligament, by which they 

 are unable. to regain their former condition, or they are 

 lacerated torn or ruptured. Those states mark the 

 severity of the case. Besides the manifestations of lame- 

 ness, varying from the slightest stiffness, or a limp, to 

 halting, or inability to move, there is always proportionate 

 heat and swelling, and these call for prompt measures ; 

 neglect usually resulting in chronic states which may 

 admit of no relief. 



Treatment. See Fomentations. These often give the 

 quickest and most permanent relief. Aperients to remove 

 constipation. Febrifuges, to combat high febrile action. 

 The latter being accomplished, cold astringent lotions, 

 No. i, evaporating lotions, c., and when the natural 



