IM Injections
Which major muscle group is used for IM injections on the side of the neck?
The cervical muscles.
What group of horses is especially associated with racing-related musculoskeletal injuries?
Race horses.
What is "tying up" in horses?
A painful muscle condition, where skeletal muscle tissue breaks down during and after exercise.
What is one legitimate veterinary reason anabolic steroids may be used in horses?
To treat chronic wasting, stimulate appetite, and aid in tissue recovery.
Which two muscles on the caudal/medial hind limb are commonly used for IM injections?
The semimembranosus and semitendinosus muscles.
Name one structure commonly injured in race horses.
Tendons, ligaments, bones, or joints can be involved; suspensory structures and flexor tendons are important examples.
What is one common sign of a horse that is tying up?
Muscle stiffness or painful, firm muscles, often with reluctance to move.
What is the basic effect of anabolic steroids on the body?
They promote anabolic processes such as protein synthesis and can increase muscle development.
Which muscle is used for IM injections on the chest.
Pectoral muscle.
What type of injury is especially important to watch for in horses that repeatedly jump obstacles?
Musculoskeletal injuries involving tendons, ligaments, joints, or bones.
What does HYPP stand for?
Hyperkalemic Periodic Paralysis.
Why might anabolic steroids be attractive to someone trying to alter a horse's appearance or performance?
They can increase muscle development and body condition.
Why is the gluteal region generally avoided as an IM injection site in horses?
Because of the risk of damaging the sciatic nerve and because complications can be difficult to manage.
How can injuries from race horses and jump horses be avoided?
Warms ups, regular vet check ups, training programs, and appropriate footing.
HYPP is associated with a mutation affecting what type of protein/channel involved in muscle function?
A skeletal-muscle sodium channel.
What makes anabolic-steroid use an abuse rather than a legitimate treatment?
Using them without a valid veterinary purpose, inappropriately, or to gain an unfair performance or appearance advantage.
What reasons do veterinarians choose specific IM injection sites carefully in horses?
To reduce the risk of nerve or vessel injury, abscesses, and serious complications .
Why are early diagnosis and appropriate rest important after performance-horse injury?
They can prevent additional tissue damage and give injured structures time to heal before the horse returns to work.
Why did HYPP become a widespread problem?
Unintended human selection.
Why are performance-enhancing drugs a concern in the horse industry?
They can affect animal welfare, produce unwanted side affects, interfere with fair competition, and violate medication rules.