Distal tarsal osteoarthritis (Bone Spavin) is one of the most common causes of equine lameness and poor performance. It is generally a bilateral problem in middle aged horses that stems from chronic wear and tear injury in many types of performance horse. Starting as a subtle progressive stiffness, before progressing to poor performance, reluctance to work and lameness, hock arthritis requires careful imaging and assessment to diagnose. Likewise, the myriad of possible treatments requires careful consideration to select the most appropriate therapy for a particular case. This talk will highlight the various diagnostic options available and discuss their relative strengths and weaknesses as a diagnostics tool for this condition. Similarly the merits and short comings of common therapies will also be outlined.

Key Learning Objectives:

• Develop a good understanding of the epidemiology and pathogenesis of hock arthritis.
• Understand the strengths and weaknesses of imaging and gait analysis in the diagnosis of a subtle bilateral lameness.
• Develop a practical understanding of controlling hock pain and restoring soundness and function to the sport horse.