Does My Horse Have A Curb?

Does your horse have an inflammation of the plantar tarsal ligament (along the hock)?

Is there any swelling along the hock?

Is there any warmth in the affected along the hock?

Does your horse exhibit lameness (may seem to come on suddenly)?

Does your horse exhibit difficulty standing (with heel held up on the affected leg)?

Your horse doesn't show any sign of having curb or hock swelling. Curb is a commonly found condition in highly active horses and is distinguished by swelling in the plantar tarsal ligament, the long band of tissue that runs down the lower part of the back of the hock. Check your horse for the symptoms and consult your veterinarian if you notice any of them.

Your horse shows one common sign of having curb or hock swelling. Curb is a commonly found condition in highly active horses and is distinguished by swelling in the plantar tarsal ligament, the long band of tissue that runs down the lower part of the back of the hock. Your horse may not have a hock swelling but you should consult with your veterinarian in any case. Your veterinarian will examine the horse’s hock joint thoroughly, using ultrasound and/or X-rays to gain a better view of the lower leg.

Your horse shows several common signs of having curb or hock swelling. Your veterinarian will examine the horse’s hock joint thoroughly, using ultrasound and/or X-rays to gain a better view of the lower leg. In most cases, the only treatment that can be given for this injury is rest with pain-relieving medications and cold compresses. If treated properly, this ailment is known to resolve itself, but often only after it has reached a chronic level. Complete rest is critical to promote full healing of the damaged ligament.

Your horse shows all common signs of having curb or hock swelling. Your veterinarian will examine the horse’s hock joint thoroughly, using ultrasound and/or X-rays to gain a better view of the lower leg. In most cases, the only treatment that can be given for this injury is rest with pain-relieving medications and cold compresses. If treated properly, this ailment is known to resolve itself, but often only after it has reached a chronic level. Complete rest is critical to promote full healing of the damaged ligament. Your veterinarian will recommend an exercise program for slowly rehabilitating the leg once it has healed.