Fetlock Joint Radiographs Required at Oaklawn for Repeated Intra-Articular Injections

Oaklawn Park | Coady

The pilot program currently in place at Oaklawn Park under which veterinarians administer any intra-articular corticosteroid injections at the racetrack in a designated area and in the presence of Oaklawn's integrity department has an addendum: any repeated intra-articular corticosteroid injection to the fetlock joint will now require the attending veterinarian to perform a radiograph. The original program was in association with the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) and began Dec. 8 along with the track's 2023-24 race season. The new rule will be in place beginning Jan. 25, is in partnership with the Arkansas Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association (HBPA), and is in consultation with the Grayson Jockey Club, according to a Wednesday afternoon release from Oaklawn.

Oaklawn's statement said, in part: “Studies have shown the fetlock joint contributes to a larger portion of equine injuries and this rule will give veterinarians more tools to diagnose potential injuries. If the connections believe a Covered Horse should have an intra-articular corticosteroid injection of a fetlock joint within 60 days of a previous injection, the connections are required to have specific digital imaging (radiographs) taken by the attending veterinarian. The attending veterinarian will then assess the fetlock joint radiograph for potentially dangerous findings before the repeated injection is administered.”

Oaklawn, in partnership with the Arkansas HBPA, will pay up to $250 for each required set of radiographs to assist with the costs. The program will continue through May 4, when the current Oaklawn meet draws to a close.

Not a subscriber? Click here to sign up for the daily PDF or alerts.

Copy Article Link

Liked this article? Read more like this.

  1. Quietside to Target Martha Washington
  2. Sunday Insight: GISW Mia Mischief's First Foal Warmed Up For Unveiling In Hot Springs
  3. After Parking Owner's Title, Flurry Relaxed As Oaklawn Opens
  4. Just Steel Among Lukas Runners Training at Oaklawn, Nearing Return
  5. Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario Orders Additional Measures to Protect Horses at Woodbine
X

Never miss another story from the TDN

Click Here to sign up for a free subscription.