SPAVIN Meaning and
Definition
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Spavin is a term used in veterinary medicine to describe a condition that affects horses. It refers to a type of degenerative disease that affects the joints, particularly the hock joint of the hindlimbs. The hock joint is located between the tibia and fibula bones and serves as the equivalent of the human ankle joint.
Spavin can be characterized by the presence of bony growths, also known as osteophytes, that develop on the joint surfaces, causing inflammation, pain, and lameness in affected animals. It is a condition that commonly affects horses involved in athletic activities, such as racing or jumping, due to the repetitive stress placed on the joints.
There are two main types of spavin: bog spavin and bone spavin. Bog spavin refers to a soft swelling that develops in the hock joint. It is often caused by an accumulation of synovial fluid, which is the lubricating fluid that helps joints move smoothly. On the other hand, bone spavin involves the formation of bony growths, which can lead to joint stiffness and restricted movement.
Spavin is considered a chronic condition that generally progresses slowly over time. While it can be managed through rest, anti-inflammatory medication, and proper hoof care, there is no known cure for spavin. Severe cases may require surgical intervention, such as arthroscopic surgery, to remove the affected bone or reduce pain and mobility issues.
Overall, spavin is a condition that can significantly impact a horse's performance and overall well-being, requiring appropriate veterinary care and management to optimize their quality of life.
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A disease of the hock-joint of the horse, marked by inflammation and swelling.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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Among horses, a hard tumour or swelling in or near a joint, particularly in the hough, causing lameness.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SPAVIN
Etymology of SPAVIN
The word "spavin" has an interesting etymology. It originally comes from the Old French word "espavain", which was derived from the Latin word "spadones", meaning "eunuch" or "castrated animal". This Latin word is believed to come from "spado", which refers to gelding or castration.
Over time, the word "spavin" evolved to specifically refer to a medical condition found in horses called "bone spavin". This condition affects the hock joint of a horse and leads to lameness. The term "spavin" was likely used because it likened the affected joint to the interference and awkwardness caused by castration.
The word "spavin" has since become a standard term in the field of veterinary medicine to describe this specific horse ailment.
Similar spelling words for SPAVIN
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