Health
Lameness due to joint inflammation
Joint inflammation is an inflammation of the joint (arthritis) or around the joint (peri-arthritis) caused by bacteria or mycoplasmas.
Definition
Joint inflammation is an inflammation of the joint (arthritis) or around the joint (peri-arthritis) caused by bacteria or mycoplasmas.Cause
Different types of bacteria and mycoplasmas can cause joint inflammation. The inflammation in the joint is caused by the bacterium getting stuck in the joint. The inflammation around the joint is often caused by damage to the skin at the level of the joint.Description
Joint inflammation can be divided into two categories; around the joint and in the joint.Arthritis (joint inflammation) is the result of a bacterial infection. Bacteria that enter the body for example through the navel or intestines, can travel through the bloodstream and get stuck in the joints. Mycoplasmas can also cause joint inflammation. The inflammation of the joint is characterized by swelling, heat and extreme pain. The pain is so intense that the animal cannot stand on the affected leg. The calves lay down a lot, through which they can suffer from bed sores.
The peri-arhritis (inflammation around the joints) is an inflammation of mucus and bandage around the joints. The condition is less painful so that the calf can stand on the affected leg.
Treatment
A long-term treatment (at least 10 days) with a suitable antibiotic (ampi-/ amoxicillin) in a sufficiently high dose is important for a good cure. Because treatment with antibiotics has to be sustained for a long time, the preference is for a suitable antibiotic that can be administered (via the milk) orally (Ampisol 20%). Fast handling is in any case a requirement to prevent permanent injury. In addition, it is recommended to regularly lubricate the affected joints (twice a day) with black ointment (Kampferichtammol ointment) to promote blood circulation. A painkiller, in this case anti-inflammatory (Novem, Voreen) also supports recovery. In addition, it is advisable to place the calves on a soft surface of rubber or straw to prevent bedsores. The healing of joint inflammation rarely leads to complete recovery. Often a stiffening of the affected joint occurs.The rest of the symptoms of inflammation around the joint often remain visible as a thickening. The joint then functions normally.
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