Kvet Forum
Well-known member
Rupture of the gastrocnemius muscle or tendon is relatively rare. It is most likely to be associated with deficiencies of calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D. Prolonged recumbency, with resulting myositis and struggling to rise, occasionally precipitates rupture of these muscles.
Clinical Signs and Diagnosis
It presents as a markedly dropped (flexed) hock joint, sometimes reaching the ground, and a markedly flexed fetlock. It is particularly obvious in the standing animal. It is usually unilateral, and may become bilateral if the animal continues to struggle.
Treatment
These animals cannot walk and have major difficulty rising therefore prompt culling is recommended once the diagnosis is confirmed.
Successful treatment is extremely unlikely in heavy adult animals. A leg cast or splint that maintains the hock in extension, supplying adequate vitamins and minerals, and proper nursing may be successful, but a long recovery period is required.
Prevention
Low stress animal handling and non-slip flooring may reduce incidence of this and other traumatic injuries.