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  Discussion on Swelling in Decending Pectoral after fall
Author Message
Member:
muffi

Posted on Tuesday, Feb 19, 2008 - 10:11 am:

Dr O.
Sunday my horse took a fall on some hard ice while running in the pen. He fell hard and legs were in the air. Garnered some Road Rash - nothing bad - Got up immediately. (was under western saddle too - no rider)Did not then and now seem lame at all. Even lay down on the side Monday in the sun to nap. This morning there is a swelling in the What I think is the Decending Pectoral muscle on the left side - see picture. It isn't the best picture but the area fits in the palm of my hand - extra flesh where the other side there is none. It is warm to the touch but he does not appear to be tender there i.e. does not flinch at all when palpitated. but it is definalty warmer than the other side - but not burning hot at this time.
Question - should I have him looked at by the VET or is this just a resudual from his wipeout on Sunday? I cleaned and dressed the wounds (road rash) with ointments to keep them clean - there are no wounds near swelling.
Please advise of best course of action -
either to watch and it should go away or be agressive and call the Vet. thanks so much.
I outlined the area in Green Pen to see better
Moderator:
DrO

Posted on Wednesday, Feb 20, 2008 - 6:52 am:

With no lameness or sensitivity I believe a wait and see attitude is reasonable Muffi. Coldwater hosing for 30 minutes twice daily for the first 3 days then gentle massage thereafter seems reasonable. Bute for 3 days would also be on my list. If is continues to swell you may need to get some help with it.
DrO
Member:
muffi

Posted on Wednesday, Feb 20, 2008 - 12:42 pm:

thanks - it has appeared to already go down some this morning. Like it is now 'Liquid' and has sagged down a little further, like gravity has taken it under more by the chest. He has no sensitivity that I can ascertain. He is a big baby - he wants LOTS of attention when is isn't 100 % and has been all over me every time I am out there. As in 'Hug me Mom it's not all good.' so I know something is going on but no lameness, he still runs around fine. So the Wait and see mode does appear to the best course of action. I think it is already getting better.
Thank you as Always for your Insight & Advice.
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