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RURAL VETERINARY t^EVRETH 



RINGBONE 



Ringbone is a disease of the bony structure, occurring as the resuh 

 of inflammation of the pastern or coffin bones, usually on the hind 

 pastern, but may be found on the fore limbs. This trouble occurs in 

 different locations on the pasterns, e. g., the two pastern bones arc 

 termed "high ringbone". If the joint between the small pastern 

 and coffin bone is affected the "low ringbone" is said to exist and 

 it is a serious condition. Somtetimes the enlargement appears on 

 the large pastern bone and is then termed "false ringbone". The 



J'oint firing for ringbone. 



bony deposit may be at the front or sides of the bones affected 

 and may cause lameness by interfering with the movement of the ten- 

 dons or ligaments. Ringbone may be caused by a horse going on the 

 toe, the result of spavin. It is important to remember that the pasterns 

 may be rough, large and prominent at the joints and yet not be affected. 

 The prominences noticed are to give attachment to ligaments and 

 muscles ; both pasterns should l)e alike. In the early stages there is a 

 slift'ness of movement of the pastern joints, and if in the fore feet, a 

 tendency to waUv on the heel, the lameness being shown long before any 

 enlargement can be noticed. 



The only satisfactory treatment is the firing iron, followed by Elk's 

 Absorbing Ointment, once daily for three days ; then rest two weeks 

 and repeat until relieved. Ai'oid hrcedimi from sires or dams with this 

 disease. 



