Angular limb deformities

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

Angular Limb Deformities

Angular limb deformities (ALD) are a type of Developmental orthopedic disease (DOD) found in young, growing horses. ALD can be either acquired or congenital deformities in a young foal. ALD is presented as either a valgus deformity or a varus deformity. Valgus deformities give the horse a 'knock-kneed' appearance and are the lateral deviation of the leg situated away from the center of the body to the location of the deformity. Varus deformities are the medial deviation of the leg situated away from the center of the body to the location of the deformity, giving the foal a 'bowlegged' appearance. Both types of deformities are also typically associated with a certain degree of axial rotation.

Deviations which occur in the fetlock are considered more urgent. Management of ALD in foals must begin early. Once the foal's growth plate closes, any potential for therapeutic intervention to correct the limb deformities is lost.

Symptoms

Crooked or rotated legs
Abnormal gait

Diagnosis

  • History
  • Clinical signs
  • Physical exam
  • Radiographs

Support

Therapies

TherapiesDetails
Restricted exercise
Hoof trimming
Nutritional adjustment
Surgery

Prevention

Scientific Research

General Overviews