Orthopaedic injuries on the racecourse

Abstract

Musculoskeletal injuries occur commonly on racecourses and are often associated with multiple horses racing at high speeds or, in National Hunt Racing, with jumping steeple chase fences and hurdles. With injuries on the racecourse, initial veterinary care is often done in the public eye. Managing the various injuries requires good knowledge of wound care, common injuries, limb support techniques and good communication. Racecourse injuries can include soft tissue wounds, some of which involve synovial structures, tendon and ligament injuries, appendicular fractures and spinal fractures. Some of these necessitate euthanasia on humane grounds, but the majority can be treated successfully by providing first aid treatment at the racecourse and organising further treatment at a referral centre, or at the trainer's yard with their own vet.