66 ' LAMENESS OF THE HORSE 



Infectious Arthritis. 



Infectious arthritis of the scapulohumeral joint the result of 

 local causes other than produced by septic wounds, seldom causes 

 serious inconvenience to the subject. "Where such occurs, how- 

 ever, there is manifested mixed lameness and complete extension 

 of the extremity is impossible. Local swelling is present and 

 manifestations of pain are evident upon palpation of the affected 

 area. 



Treatment. — During the first stage of the infection, local ap- 

 plications, hot or cold, are indicated. A hot poultice of bran 

 or other suitable material contained within a muslin sack, may 

 be supported by means of cords or taj^es which are passed over 

 the withers and tied around the opposite fore leg. Such an 

 appliance may be held in position more securely by attaching 

 it to the affected member. Following the acute stage of such an 

 infection, any local counter-irritating application or even a 

 vesicant is in order. 



Where abatement of the infectious process does not take place, 

 and suppuration of the structures in the vicinity of the joint 

 occurs, it is necessary to provide drainage for pus. In some 

 cases of strangles, for instance, large pus cavities are formed 

 and drainage is imperative. However, metastatic inflammation 

 of this joint is seldom observed except in cases of strangles. 

 The animal should be kept perfectly quiet until recovery has 

 taken place. 



Injuries. 



Injuries to the scapulohumeral joint may be the result of 

 kicks, runaway accidents or bruises from the collar, and there 

 may result, because of such injuries, reactionary inflammation 

 which will vary in intensity from the mildest synovitis to the 

 most severe arthritis, causing more or less lameness. 



Treatment. — The general plan of treatment in this form of 

 arthritis is the same as has been outlined under the head of in- 

 fectious arthritis, with the exception that there is seldom occa- 

 sion to provide for drainage of pus. 



