Local Injuries. 257 



heat is established in the affected parts, embrocation 

 No. 3 or 4 as may be required. 



Ringbones. — Repeated and long-continued inflamma- 

 tion, the result of concussion, involving the bones and 

 ligamentous structures of the bones of the pastern, &c, 

 result in a mass of bony deposit on the external surfaces, 

 as to create great disfigurement as well as enlargement, 

 sometimes to the extent of stiffening, and even fixing the 

 joints. Such is known as a " ringbone," because it 

 surrounds the bones. 



Sidebones arise from similar causes as the preceding 

 affection, the disease being ossification of the lateral 

 cartilages of the coffin-bone. They are discovered on 

 the upper and latter part of the hoof towards the heels. 

 Like ringbones, they mostly attack the fore feet. 



Treatment. — First reduce the systemic disturbance by 

 aperients, febrifuges, &c, and the local heat by fomenta- 

 tions, proceeding as indicated generally for sprain. 

 Later use the biniodide of mercury ointment, the actual 

 cautery, &c. Abolish heels and toes as well as heavy 

 shoes, and send the animal to work on the land. 



Spavin. — This is the conventional term for a bony 

 deposit upon the inner surface of the hock joint, arising 

 from similar causes as already named in the preceding 

 affections. Some spavins are small, and notwithstanding 

 there is much pain and actual lameness, the practised 

 eye only is able to pronounce definitely as to their exist- 

 ence. Stiffness of the joint is a concomitant, and the 

 hard wearing of the toe of the shoe is evident. 



Treatment as for the preceding. 



Navicular Disease, or Grogginess. — Disease of the 

 navicular or shuttle-bone within the hoof. In well- 

 defined cases the hoof is hot, dry, hard, upright, narrow, 

 and the growth of horn is sometimes greatly increased. 

 The frog is small, and drawn inwards towards the hoof. 

 Pointing, and a restless movement often betokens pain 

 as well as serious states. 



Treatment of all kinds has been adopted, and in the 

 majority of cases unsuccessfully. The great probability 

 is that disease of the bone is extensive, to which is added 



17 



