Applying Hock Bandages On Horses (2 of 2)

Hock Bandaging Guidelines

Cover the wound or surgical site with sterile, non-stick gauze or dressing.

Surround the hock with soft, absorbent padding, such as roll or sheet cotton or combine sheet at least two inches thick. Padding should extend 4-6 inches above and below the point of the hock and lie flat and wrinkle-free against the skin.

Begin wrapping with support fabric well below the point of the hock (approximately one-half inch above the edge of the padding).

Wrap front to back, outside to inside, spiraling upward (clockwise in right legs, counterclockwise in left legs). Exert just enough pull to stretch the fabric to half its maximum extended length.

Overlap each preceding layer by 50 percent using smooth, uniform tension to compress the padding without forming lumps or ridges beneath the bandage.

Begin a figure 8 pattern just below the point of the hock by extending the bandage from inside the leg below the point of the hock to the outside of the leg above the point of the hock. Continue the wrap around the back of the leg and then extend it downward inside to outside.

Repeat this figure 8 pattern working up the leg until the bandage extends 4-6 inches above the point of the hock, covering the padding to one-half inch of the edge.

Depending on the nature and location of the injury, your veterinarian will advise you whether or not to cover the point of the hock with the support layer. (The horse may be more comfortable if the hock is not completely encased.)

When bandaging, use enough pressure to minimize swelling and keep the bandage in place, but never wrap so tightly that you cannot easily slip a finger between the top of the bandage and the tendon that runs up the back of the leg above the point of the hock.

Do not wrap too loosely as the bandage may slip or fail to do its job.

Secure the bandage at the top and bottom with an adhesive tape such as Elastikon.

If you have problems with the hock bandage slipping, begin by wrapping the lower leg from coronet band to several inches below the hock.* This provides a foundation for the hock bandage and will help keep it in place. This technique is especially useful in post-legged (straight-hocked) horses and is usually used when horses have edema or swelling below the hock as well as within the hock area.

(Back to... Applying Hock Bandages On Horses Part 1)

Other Considerations For Hock Bandages

Because hocks are such vital structures, any injury to the joint or immediate area should be evaluated by a veterinarian. If a hock bandage is required, do not be disappointed if your initial efforts are less than satisfactory. Even under the best of circumstances, the hock is a difficult place to secure a bandage. Work with you veterinarian, and, if necessary, employ him or her to change the bandage as needed. Following are some additional considerations:

- A horse with a condition requiring a hock bandage should usually be confined to a stall or small run.
- Check the bandage several times a day to make sure it has not shifted or loosened.
- Make sure the bandage does not:
- Cut off circulation
- Pinch the tendon at the back of the leg
- Create pressure sores
- Cause discomfort
- Monitor and evaluate the horse carefully. Contact your veterinarian if...
- Swelling develops above the bandage or at the point of the hock
- Lameness increases
- The horse has an elevated temperature
- The horse becomes depressed, irritable, or loses its appetite
- Change the bandage at least every 2-3 days, or immediately if it becomes wet or soiled

If you have any further questions or concerns about hock bandaging techniques, contact your local equine veterinarian.

(Back to... Applying Hock Bandages On Horses Part 1)

Portions reprinted with permission from the American Association of Equine Practitioners.