ridecamp@endurance.net: [endurance] Hunter's Bumps

[endurance] Hunter's Bumps

Linda Flemmer (CVLNURS@CHKD-7.evms.edu)
Fri, 03 May 1996 10:24:06 -0500 (EST)

At the end of last year, our older (14 y.o.) QH/TB gelding developed
a fibrous area in front of the loins. It was a firm raised area down
the length of the spine for about 3", just behind where the saddle
stops. The bump did not appear tender or sore, but the horse was
somewhat stiff in one rear hock. (The horse prefers to trot in a
balanced frame, but w/ TERRIFIC extensions and a wide base. He is
clocked at 22 mph in a trot!)

After a 6 month break, we started riding him again since the bump was
gone & the stiffness was improved. At the time, the vet found nothing specific
in hock xrays, and told us the bump was a Hunter's Bump. He wouldn't
(or couldn't) elaborate other than to say that horses in the hunt
field often develop these problems.

After 2 months of conditioning this spring, the bump is reappearing although
the hock stiffnes is not. The rider is balanced and well trained
(dressage, hunt, western pleasure). Any ideas on what is happening?
The vet we use is also a chiropracter & does acupuncture - he did
not suggest that these would help the horse. Is this necessarily
true? Any suggestions?

Linda Flemmer
ABF Challenger ("Rocket") & Eternal Point ("Major")
Blue Wolf Equestrian Supplies/ Blue Wolf Ranch
Chesapeake, VA

"In case of emergency - Fur side up, steel side down!"