Curb in Horses

Curb in Horses is the desmitis of the plantar ligament which originates on the plantar proximal aspect of the tuber calcis, courses laterally to the tarsal canal, and inserts on the distal part of the tuber calcis and the fourth tarsal and fourth Metatarsal bones.

The Curb in Horses is characterized by a thickening of the plantar distal aspect of the tarsus as viewed from the lateral side. Other structures that occupy the same area and may produce similar appearing swellings include the SDFT (superficial digital flexor tendon) and subcutaneous thickening.

Etiology

• Excessive violent tension or trauma may be seen
• Sickle-hocked (curby hocks) or cow-hocked conformation impose exceptional stress on the plantar ligament and thus tend to produce curb in horses

Clinical signs

• A curb is an enlargement on the plantar surface of the fibular tarsal bone.
• In the acute phase, there are signs of inflammation and lameness.
• The horse stands with the heel elevated when the limb is at rest, and heat and swelling can be palpated in the region
• In a severe case, in which trauma has been the inciting cause, periostitis on the plantar aspect of the fibular tarsal bone may result in new bone growth
• If the inflammation is septic, extensive swelling and cellulitis may occur.
• In chronic cases, tissues surrounding the region often become infiltrated with scar tissue, and a permanent blemish results.
• Lameness may not be present, even though a considerable blemish is evident. Occasionally, the proximal end of the fourth metatarsal bone is large and causes false curb

Diagnosis

• Based on the Clinical signs
• Radiography examination
• Ultrasonography examination

Treatment

• Rest and controlled exercise can be advised
• Cold pack for acute inflammation
• Anti-inflammatory therapy (NSAIDs)
• Shock wave therapy

Prognosis

Prognosis for the Curb is favourable, unless if the horse have poor conformation.