stifle problems

[guest@endurance.net]

Caryn Peck capeck@mindspring.com
I'm hoping someone can help me.  I have a very fit 10 yr old Arab gelding.
I think he may have a problem with his stifle because he resists trotting
up steep hills - he wants to canter.  I know it's easier for him to canter
so maybe he's just tryng to get out of working so hard.  Today as I was
walking up a very steep hill with him he suddenly tucked his butt and
bolted.  This is not like him and there was nothing that spooked him.  At
the next hill he did the same thing.  I knew something was wrong.  He
seemed very sound.  The last hill going home was down and I could hear a
"popping" sound (which he doesn't usually do, I know horses do this
sometimes - lactic acid or something?) I got off and walked him home.  He
seemed uncomfortable walking down the steep parts.  I can see a "stifle"
type stiffness now.  He looks free and easy at the walk but on a longe at
the trot I can see something.  I don't know what to do.  I know exercise
is important and that should be on the flat at the walk, but I don't know
why this would happen and thought I had been doing lots of LSD to
strengthen him.  I also do very light dressage 2x a week with him.  I sure
would appreciate any comments.  This is the second time I've had a horse
do this.  I thought I was being so careful. Thank you.