Ashley Griffin, University of Kentucky
A splint is a calcification or bony growth, usually occurring on the inside of the cannon bone of the front leg.
A splint is usually the result of a tear in the interosseous ligament that binds the splint bones to the cannon bone. Splints are usually the result of trauma, but they can be caused by:
- Slipping
- Running and jumping
- Getting kicked, or
- Concussion from hard ground.
A developing splint is referred to as a green splint and can cause pain and lameness. Once a bony callus forms, the splint rarely causes trouble unless it extends up into the knee. Splints are the most common defect of front limbs and usually occur in young horses before 6 years of age.
