In dealing with some of the top-level professionals in the equine industry, including universities and veterinarians, we have come to the conclusion that the hock is a highly-stressed joint that has been overlooked by many and must be treated properly.
The HOCK is actually the most stressed and abused joint in the athletic horse. This is a widely common health issue among all Race Horses, Quarter Horses, Thoroughbreds, Standardbreds, Barrel Racers, Endurance Horses, Grand Prix Jumpers and all other performance horses. It’s a serious matter that warrants more attention.
People have been using Injections, Sweating, Poultices, Magnetic Wraps, Firing and other modalities that are not in the best interest of the horse, the hocks, the trainer or the owner($$$$)—these treatments are costly and a waste of time. None of these treatments will work effectively if there is any Arthritis or OCD in the hocks.
LEG SAVER KILLS ALL INFECTIONS (ARTHRITIS) IN THE HOCKS. LEG SAVER treatments increase fluid in the hocks (the fluid thickens which increases lubrication causing the joint to run smoother, like a well-oiled machine).
When the hocks are compromised there will be big problems in the front legs of the horse as well as problems in the rear end with the stifle, whirl bone and sacroiliac. The front leg tendons, ligaments, ankles (fetlocks), knees and hooves take a lot of abuse when the hocks are compromised because the horse will adjust it’s gait to reduce the pain it is feeling in the hocks. This adjustment shifts additional weight onto the front legs—remember the front end of the horse already carries 2/3 of the entire weight of the horse.
If you want to find out if your horse is suffering from painful hocks just feel them first thing in the morning (before exercise) and see if there is any heat in the lower joint of the hock. Feel them with your hand but make sure you hold it there for 30 to 60 seconds. The hock should feel cold, just like the ankle or hoof. There should be no heat in the hocks whatsoever.
Comment: We find more issues with hocks in Race Horses that are racing on polytracks and smaller tracks with tight corners.
It is so easy to check on the hocks, so why not do it?
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