ThePigSite Pig Health
Fractures
(263) Bone fractures are not uncommon in sows and gilts and are usually the end result of trauma and fighting although spontaneous ones occur in bone disease such as osteomalacia, associated with calcium phosphorus and vitamins A and D, and osteochondrosis.Clinical signs
The onset is invariably sudden, the animal being unable to rise on its own without difficulty. A significant feature is the reluctance to place any weight on the affected leg. The muscles and tissues over the fracture site are often swollen and painful and the pig is very reluctant to move unless on three legs. An examination is best carried out when the pig is lying down. Crepitus or the rubbing together of the two broken ends of the bone can often be felt. Fractures of the spinal vertebra are common in the first litter female particularly during lactation and in the immediate post weaning period. The pig usually adopts a dog sitting position and exhibits severe pain on movement. Such animals should be destroyed.
Diagnosis
This is based upon the history, symptoms and palpation to detect crepitus.
Similar diseases
These include acute laminitis, arthritis, muscle tearing, bush foot and mycoplasma arthritis.
Treatment
Management control and prevention
