Thoroughpin in Horses

• This swelling can be moved around across the hollow above the hock; it is very soft and mobile 
• It is usually on one leg but can affect both if it is skeletal deformity
• A soft lump will be noticed around the hock area 
• The lump can vary in size 

Types

• Usually defined as a soft bulge above the hock, and considered more of a cosmetic problem than a health issue (especially if your horse is a show horse)
• Other conditions such as bog spavin which is similar in appearance but may cause arthritis 
• Capped hock (kicks from another horse, or blows as your horse kicks its stall)
• Curb (enlargement of the plantar ligament at the back of the hock)
• Bone spavin which is a degenerative joint disease

Treatment is usually not necessary for routine cases of thoroughpin. Usually, the swelling doesn’t affect your horse’s movement unless you are showing or racing the horse. Your veterinarian may suggest drainage of the excess fluid but that is mainly for appearances rather than health. This condition can be reoccurring and care taken with your horse may help prevent further episodes. Take training slowly and allow your horse to adjust to it. Don’t rush a young horse, let them develop at their own speed and build up that strength in their limbs.

Avoid over working your horse, especially as your horse gets older. And protect your horse from self-inflicting injuries with boots for trips to manage anxiety and kicking out. Usually, thoroughpin management is prevention, followed by care and observation to see how the condition is affecting your horse, and time allowed for healing. The prognosis is very good for this condition, as it doesn’t seem to affect your horse’s performance a great deal. But as with any concerns, it always pays to get a new lump check out to make sure it is harmless.