Contusion of Gluteal Nerves. Gluteal Paralysis 867 



a. Contusion of the Gi^uteal Nerves. Gluteal 

 Paralysis. 



We have observed, in two cases in draft mares, paralysis of 

 the gluteal muscles, followed by atrophy consequent upon par- 

 turition. In our observations. neither case was referable to dys- 

 tokia, in the ordinary acceptation of the term, since birth took 

 place without aid and, so far as known, without observable diffi- 

 culty. The mares were in prime condition ; no injury or infec- 

 tion was externally visible ; there was no fever or loss of appe- 

 tite or flesh. Yet, when the mare was down it was difficult for 

 her to get up, and when up she walked with an unsteady gait. 

 In one case the paralysis was unilateral, and consequently the 

 difiiculty experienced in rising was not great. When moved she 

 had a very distinct paralytic limp in the affected limb. After a 

 few days the muscles of the gluteal region commenced to atrophy 

 rapidly, which continued to an extreme degree, but the paralysis 

 soon subsided, although there was a certain deficiency in the 

 strength of the part. After the lapse of several weeks the mus- 

 cles began to recover their volume, but the recovery was very 

 slow, and nearly a year elapsed before the parts resumed their 

 normal appearance. 



In the second case the paralysis was very profound and notable, 

 because both hind limbs were involved and it was necessary for 

 a time to aid the mare^ somewhat when she attempted to get up, 

 although once she had gained her feet she could walk about with 

 some difficulty. The paralytic symptoms subsided in the course 

 of two or three weeks, while the atrophy was extreme and the 

 restoration of the muscles was very slow, though eventually 

 complete. 



The handling of contusion of the gluteal nerves must depend 

 fundamentally upon the general care of the animal, since there 

 is nothing very direct to be accomplished, nor is it probably nec- 

 essary as a rule that anything definite should be done. The an- 

 imal should not be permitted to struggle in getting up, or other- 

 wise exert herself violently in a manner to increase the injury 

 to the nerves and muscles, but should be watched rather closely 

 and guarded against further injury. To this end she should 

 have comfortable quarters, and her stall should be so managed 

 that she will have the best footing possible in order to avoid any 



