>>> That's what I want to know. Can you see it? Are there subtle differences >>> in the stance of the horse or the shape of the joint?
Although I don't think you can see it, some conformations are more prone to it. However, even legs that look good can succumb to it due to an accident or rough riding. It's basically like arthritis - some of us are just going to get it no matter what, others get arthritis due to an injury that leaves a joint under stress, and trauma (short or long term) can be a factor. (Cary's joints took a beating when he was running, and he's feeling it now.) There's a great article on The Horse website, www.thehorse.com. Search for "A Pain in the Hocks" - I think that was the title. Causes mentioned are heredity, improper hoof angles, work on hard or slippery surfaces (ice is both!), and caulks and ice nails. In other words, no wonder it seems common in "traditional" Icelandics. Karen Thomas, NC No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.467 / Virus Database: 269.7.0/801 - Release Date: 5/12/2007 6:40 PM
