Review of Equine Distal Hock Inflammation and Arthritis

The tarsus is a common etiology of hindlimb lameness in the horse. The distal intertarsal and tarsometatarsal joints are considered the wear and tear joints of the hindlimbs and are a common source of reduced performance. Conformation, such as a sickle hock, may increase the stress across the distal hocks, but occupation and athleticism are the chief culprits involved with increasing the shear and rotational forces through these joints. Horses with distal hock pain can often be managed conservatively and maintain their athletic career. Occasionally, more aggressive methods of management are indicated and necessary.