\ SPECIAL rN JURIES OF BONES. 357 



CAPPED HOCK. 

 Tnis is of two kinds : ist, a serous distention of a bursa which 

 exists between the skin and the point of the hock : and 2d, 

 sprain of the tendon inserted on the point of the hock (gastroc- 

 nemius) or of the one which plays over it (perforatus). 



1. The distension of the subcutaneous bursa usually results 

 from kicks or blows, and is to be feared as indicating vice, but 

 rarely causes lameness. The soft fluctuating swelling is directly 

 backward from the point of the hock, and may be of almost any 

 size. Slight and recent cases may be treated by a purge and 

 soothing lotions, to be followed as soon as heat and tenderness 

 subside by a smart blister (iodide of mercury 2 drs., lard i oz.) 

 Should the sac remain, evacuate with the nozzle of a hypoder- 

 mic syringe and apply a wet elastic bandage; or open by a 

 small orifice below and heal like an ordinary wound. To pre- 

 vent its repetition is a much more difficult matter, as it usually 

 implies the cure of a vice. Stretching prickly bushes or chains 

 behind him, tying chains or logs to the limb above the hock, or 

 applying hobbles, are all more likely to ensure permanent injury 

 to a nervous animal than to cure him of his vice. A kicking 

 strap will often succeed in harness. 



2. In case of sprain of the tendons, the swelling takes place 

 at the two sides and above rather than at the point of the hock. 

 It is more or less tense, but elastic and even fluctuates on pres- 

 sure. It is often attended with severe lameness, which may be- 

 come permanent in connection with ulceration of the bone. It 

 is to be treated like an ordinary sprain by high-heeled shoe, 

 and fomentations or cold astringent lotions, followed by blister^ 

 If swelling remains it may be punctured and compressed as in 

 the first form of capped hock, but a seton should not be used. 



DISPLACEMENT OUTWARD OF THE TENDON PLAYING OVER 

 THE POINT OF THE HOCK. 



Tbis is a rare occurrence, the tendon being traceable as 9. firm 



