DISEASES AND INJURIES OF THE LEGS. 



199 



A splint, when once fully formed into oone, cannot be removed; but 

 Nature in the course of time often absorbs a portion of the abnormal 

 growth, and hence it is not uncommon to find the legs of old horses free 

 or nearly free from external exostosis. 



SORE-SHINS 



Is primarily inflammation of the periosteum of the anterior portion of 

 the metacarpal bones from the knee to the fetlock, particularly of young 

 horses, too early put to work. 



In consequence of the inflammation of the periosteum, ossific matter 

 is secreted, which forms in small nodules or in some instances in thin 

 layers on the surface of the bones. (Fig. 102.) 



Etiology. — It arises from the concussion upon the soft and undevel- 

 oped bones of the fore-legs, produced by hard galloping. Usually the 

 leg which leads is the first affected. 



