Windpuffs

Veterinary advice should be sought before applying any treatment or vaccine.

Windpuffs

Windgalls

Windpuffs are considered to be a type of blemish found in the lower legs of aged athletic horses. They are a form of chronic joint distention and appear as soft, fluid-filled swellings near the back of the fetlock that have been present for over a month. They are primarily caused by repeated bouts of synovitis, degenerative joint disease, bone or cartilage defects within the joint (bone chip, osteochondrosis lesion), or stretching of the joint capsule.

As long as there is no heat, the swelling doesn't increase with exercise, and the horse is not lame, then 'windpuffs' are considered a cosmetic blemish. However, each case of chronic joint distention does have a underlying cause which may affect the future athletic career of the horse.

Symptoms

Soft, fluid-filled swellings
There is no heat, pain or lameness
Swelling doesn't increase with exercise

Diagnosis

  • History
  • Clinical signs
  • Physical exam

Support

Therapies

Treatment is not usually necessary, however windpuffs should be closely monitored.

Scientific Research

    General Overviews

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