LAMENESS IN THE FORE LEG 



139 



Contraction of the superficial digital flexor (perforatus), when 

 nncomplieated, is characterized by volar flexion of the pastern 

 joint. The foot is flat on the ground and the heel is not raised 

 because tlie superficial flexor tendon does not have its insertion 

 to the distal phalanx (os pedis) and therefore can not affect the 

 position of the foot. 



By causing the subject to stand on the affected member, one 



Fig. 21 — Contraction of the deep flexor tendon (perforans) of the riglit hind 

 leg, due to tendinitis. 



may outline the course of the flexor tendons by palpation, and 

 in this way recognize any lack of tenseness or contraction of 

 tendons or of the suspensory ligament. 



Contraction of the suspensory ligament would cause the pas- 

 tern joint to assume the same position as is occasioned by con- 

 traction of the superficial digital flexor (perforatus) tendon, but 

 when the subject is bearing weight on the affected member, it is 

 easy to determine that no contraction of the suspensory liga- 



