SPRAIN OR STRAIN 



291 



The amount of swelling varies in different cases, sometimes it is very 

 considerable, in which case it is not confined to the front of the joint, but 

 is also seen on either side near to the seat of thorough-pin, for which it is 

 often mistaken. It must be pointed out that the lameness is not always in 

 proportion to the size of the swelling. Very large bog-spavins are some- 

 times found to occasion but slight defect in action, while smaller ones may 

 be attended with severe lameness. 



Treatment. In this disorder the object of treatment will be 1, to 

 subdue inflammation; 2, to promote absorption of the fluid existing in the 

 capsule of the joint; 3, to prevent excess of secretion; 

 and 4, to bring about contraction of the overstretched 

 and enlarged joint capsule. Where the disease is 

 attended with inflammatory symptoms, or is brought 

 about by dietetic causes, a dose of physic should be 

 promptly administered and the animal put on a bran 

 diet. Hot fomentations to the part, or what is 

 equally beneficial, douching the joint with cold water 

 for half an hour to an hour three times a day, will 

 be necessary. Should the latter course be adopted, 

 cold-water bandages must be applied to the part in 

 the intervals and frequently changed. 



After the inflammatory action has been subdued 

 a blister should be applied over the entire surface 

 of the hock, and repeated if necessary two or three 

 times at intervals of three to four weeks. 



In the more chronic cases, firing, and blistering 

 over the fired surface, will require to be resorted to. 

 Iodide of potassium, given in doses of 2 to 3 drams 

 morning and evening, will assist in the reduction of the swelling. Where 

 poverty exists a liberal ration of good food should be allowed, together 

 with iron tonics. 



Animals suffering from bog-spavin are benefited by a run at grass 

 after the inflammation has been reduced, and in some cases the absorption 

 of the fluid may be hastened by the application of a suitable compress to 

 the affected joint (fig. 364). 



Fig. 364. Bog-spavin Truss 

 or Compress 



SPRAIN OR STRAIN 



A sprain is an injury to a ligament, a tendon, a muscle, or a joint, 

 in which there is over-extension and sometimes laceration of fibres and 

 maybe displacement of parts. 



