Ashley Griffin, University of Kentucky

Epiphysitis is an inflammation of the epiphysial cartilage plate of the long bones. It occurs mostly on the front legs and is associated with growth in young horses. The cause is excessive pressure from either too much weight or concussion on an inmature skeletal system. The swelling can be painful and can result in lameness. Prognosis is good for the young horse, provided the foal gets rest until the swelling resides or the epiphyses closes naturally.