Flexural and angular limb deformities

Flexural contractures

Treatment of flexural contracture involves physical therapy, pain relief, and progressive splinting. Oxytetracycline can be useful in neonates as it temporarily relaxes the muscle-tendon unit. Surgery may be needed to transect tight tendons.  In ruminants, the contracture often involves the joint capsule, rather than just the tendons. Due to the joint capsule involvement, treatment is not as effective in ruminants as in horses.  If the joint capsule is contracted, that means there is no muscle to respond to tetracycline and nothing to cut at surgery.

Angular limb deformities

Camelids have mild carpus valgus normally. More severe angulation can be seen. However, the growth plates are slower to close than in horses. Mother nature and restricted diets can take care of the problem. Fast growing crias may need to be weaned early as the dam’s milk may be too rich.

Resources

The effectiveness of oxytetracycline in the treatment of calves with contracted flexor tendons. Veterinary Evidence Vol 7- No evidence either way

Flexural deformities (overall and equine)

Angular limb deformities (overall and equine)