SPRAIN OF THE BACK SINEWS. 
119 
water three or four times a day, each time for about an 
hour; and in the intervals let large poultices of lintseed 
meal he wrapped round the leg. A little of Goulard's 
extract, or vinegar, may he added to the poultice with 
advantage. A great deal depends, however, on the warmth 
and moisture of the poultice, as well as the fomentations, 
These appliances are intended to allay the inflammation. 
Stimulants are to he carefully avoided, as these are sure to 
increase the inflammation. 
When the horse begins to rest his foot upon the sole, and 
the heat has left the part, it is certain that the irritation 
will have considerably abated. But although this is the 
case, means must be used to prevent the recurrence of the 
inflammation, and also to reduce the swelling. Apply a 
thin flannel bandage to support the parts, which, by gentle 
pressure, will have a tendency to stimulate the absorbents, 
and promote the absorption of the coagulated matter which 
caused the complaint; and it should be applied tighter as 
the limb will endure increased pressure ; and this appliance 
should be continued for at least fourteen days. It will be 
better to keep the bandage wet with the following lotion :— 
Vinegar ... 1 pint, 
Spirit of wine £ pint. 
This will have the effect- of reducing the deep-seated inflam¬ 
mation. 
If in a fortnight all the symptoms have disappeared, the 
horse may be put to work, but of course with caution. But 
if after this time lameness still continues, then recourse 
must be had to a blister ; and in this case it will be proper 
afterwards to turn out the horse for a month or two to allow 
proper time and opportunity for the reduction of the swell¬ 
ing and inflammation, otherwise an incurable lameness may 
be the result. 
