Oaklawn to require radiographs prior to second fetlock injection

Horses stabled at Oaklawn Park in Hot Springs, Ark. that receive a corticosteroid injection in the fetlock joint will need to have the joint radiographed before a second administration within 60 days of the first injection, according to a new policy announced by the track on Thursday.

The new policy was implemented on Thursday. It arose out of discussions between the local horsemen’s group and the track, which began a trial project at the start of its meet last year in which all joint injections are monitored by regulatory personnel.

The radiographs would be used to “assess the fetlock joint for potentially dangerous findings before the repeated injection is administered.” A release from the track said the assessment would be done by the attending veterinarian.

Although corticosteroids can reduce swelling in joints, the repeated use of the drugs can also cause degeneration in the joint and negative effects on the strength of surrounding cartilage, according to the American Association of Equine Practitioners. Many United States racing jurisdictions have been implementing tighter restrictions on corticosteroid use for the past decade.

“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,” Oaklawn said in a release.

The Arkansas Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association and Oaklawn Park will provide “up to $250” toward the costs of the radiographs, the groups said.

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