Clinically contracture is seen as reduced of a joint, or joints, held either in slight flexion or hyperextension. There is decreased ability of the affected muscle(s) to lengthen or pain upon lengthening. The affected muscle and tendon and the associated joint capsule(s) may become fibrotic in chronic cases. In the chronic stage the horse will be functionally and may develop secondary pain or compensatory issues as a result of this lameness.
Diagnosis of a contracture is made through clinical signs and symptoms as well as through ultrasonography.
Treatment is massage therapy, hot hydrotherapy and physiotherapy. Surgery maybe necessary in severe cases. NSAIDs or muscle relaxants can be given.
Contracture may be minimized or prevented by the management of inflammation during the healing process and through the implementation of massage and range of motion exercises as the scar matures.
Common conditions such as
,
, kyphosis and flexural
deformities are all examples of contracture.
Muscle Strain A muscle strain is a tearing of the muscle fibres.
A strain is caused by or contraction beyond the capacity of the muscular/tendon unit. Direct trauma or repeated micro-trauma will lead to tearing of muscle fibres. Strain of a muscle causes tearing and necrosis of the myofibrils and associated vasculature. This damage causes an inflammatory reaction in the surrounding tissue. Swelling associated with inflammation pushes the collagen fibres of the muscle apart.
There are 3 classes of strains:
• Mild –
• Moderate –
• Severe –
Signs & symptoms in the acute st a ge include sharp, aching pain immediately upon injury, pain with palpation & movement, decreased ROM of affected joint, lameness, local inflammation, swelling, possible bruising or muscle . In the chronic stage we see stiff/weak joints, edema, low grade inflammation and adhesion formation. Diagnosis is through signs & symptoms, ultrasound, case history, palpation and x-rays to ensure no avulsion fracture has occurred.
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