Applying Hock Bandages On Horses (1 of 2)
This information is presented as general guidance. It is not intended to replace the services of a licensed veterinarian, or an "on the scene" evaluation. Please remember that as with treating any medical condition, the first and most important principle is to do no harm. Do not do anything that you feel might make the condition worse or result in a new injury. If in doubt, better to err on the side of calling your veterinarian!
Help Topics :
- Reasons To Use A Hock Bandage
- Hock Bandaging Challenges
- Useful Bandage Materials For Hocks
- Hock Bandaging Guidelines
- Other Considerations For Hock Bandages
Reasons To Use A Hock Bandage
A horse uses its hock in nearly everything it does-from stopping and standing to walking and galloping. Constant use and a prominently exposed point make hocks vulnerable to stress, fatigue and traumatic injury. Your veterinarian may recommend a hock bandage in any number of situations, such as: following surgery; providing joint support for a weak foal; protecting a wound; or reducing heat and swelling in a strained joint.
Hock bandages are used to:
- - Prevent or reduce swelling and edema
- - Reduce motion in the joint
- - Provide support for a weak or injured joint
- - Protect a wound or surgical site from contamination or trauma
- - Aid in the healing of wounds
- - Absorb fluids (exudates)
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Hock Bandaging Challenges
Applying a hock bandage is not without its challenges. Because of the shape and motion of the joint, it requires special techniques to make the hock bandage safe, secure and effective. Horses also tend to react more to a hock bandage than a lower leg bandage, and may be inclined to kick, fight or fidget. Stay alert and be prepared to move out of harm's way if the horse reacts adversely to its hock bandage.
As with any type of bandage, a hock bandage can be hazardous if applied incorrectly. There is always the risk of injury to circulation, and to the tendons and ligaments if the layers are not applied smoothly, evenly and with the right amount of tension. If you have never bandaged a horse's legs before, ask your veterinarian or an experienced equine professional to demonstrate the proper techniques. Practice under his or her supervision before doing it on your own.
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Useful Bandage Materials For Hocks
Because of the bandage's location, you will need materials that readily conform to the shape of the hock and permit movement without slipping or loosening. If the bandage will cover a wound or surgical site, the materials should also be sterile. You will need:
- - Sterile, Non-Stick Gauze Pads or dressing to cover wounds
- - Sheet Cotton, Roll Cotton, or Combine Cotton for padding
- - Stretch Gauze or Bandaging Tape such as 3M Vetrap Bandaging Tape at least 2-3 inches wide.
- - Stretch Adhesive Tape such as Elastikon, to secure the bandage.
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