A capped hock appears as swelling at the point of the horse's hock. A 'windgall' is a term used to describe fluid swellings behind the fetlock in horses and ponies...
Windgalls themselves are really only an indication that there is a weakness and a lubrication problem in the tendons above. The underlying problems are associated with the fluid which lubricates the tendon within the tendon sheath and inflammation results in excess fluid attempting to cool and lubricate.
What does a capped hock look like?
- Swelling above or on the horse’s hock
- Mild lameness in affected limb
- Fluid around the joint that feels like a bubble
McDowells Products
We can prescribe a super concentrated extract based on Arnica, Witch Hazel and the Bach Flower Rescue Remedy which you mix with Linseed Oil to be massaged locally over the area of the swelling. This promotes re-absorption of the fluid and healing. These extracts are extremely concentrated and must be applied sparingly and under our specific advice in each case. This is a topical treatment to reduce the swelling.
Structural Injury Program
This combination of two powerful products have been successfully used by McDowells Herbal to promote the re-growth of attachment points and the re-tensioning of stretched or damaged ligaments whilst supporting the easing of pain and alleviating inflammation.
Alleviate has been traditionally used to reduce pain from inflammation and support in the healing process. This formulation may be used safely for both emergencies and in the long term for comfort.
Tendon and Bone is successfully used to promote the re-growth of attachment points and the re-tensioning of stretched or damaged ligaments.
Tendon and Bone
Tendon and Bone has been successfully used by McDowells Herbal to promote the re-growth of attachment points and the re-tensioning of stretched or damaged ligaments. Elecampane is a stimulant to fibroblast (the most common cells of connective tissue in animals) and osteoblast (single nucleus that synthesize bone) activity due to its allantoin content. Millet contains especially high levels of organic silica compounds as well as carbohydrate and many other minerals. It also contains high levels of magnesium and higher in protein than most other grains. Linseed is specific nourishment for strength and elasticity of ligaments and attachment points and is a whole feed source of Omega 3 and 6 and Linoleic acids. Kelp contains phosphorus iron, sodium, calcium, magnesium and potassium which makes it great for strengthening bones and assists in the treatment of arthritis and rheumatism.
Alleviate
This formulation has evolved from a consideration of the dangers of administering phenylbutazone (Bute) routinely to horses sensitive to its side effects. Traditionally White Willow Bark and Devils Claw were used for pain relief. Guaiacum was traditionally used for Gout and Burdock as a blood cleanser for Rheumatoid processes. Pine Bark, Rosehips, Elecampane for its Allantoin content together with Yarrow in a Vinegar base all support repair.
These herbs have been traditionally used to reduce pain from inflammation and support in the healing process. This formulation may be used safely for both emergencies and in the long term for comfort.
Tendon Cream
Ligament damage, tendonitis, windgalls and capped hocks and shin soreness are best treated by using this specially prepared external cream in conjunction with the Tendon and Bone Treatment, which is mixed with feed. The Tendon Cream includes Linseed Oil, Comfrey, Arnica and White Willow as well as the Dr Bach™ Flower, Rescue Remedy™ in an aqueous cream base. The cream can be used as a preventative for any animal susceptible to such problems by applying the cream sparingly once per day to the affected area.
