Musculo-skeletal examination and diagnosis of the downer cow

There are many primary conditions that cause recumbency in cows, some of which are injuries to their musculo-skeletal system. Many down cows, no matter their primary cause, have suffered secondary musculo-skeletal damage from the recumbency and this damage is the main reason for them failing to rise. Thus, it is vital to be able to carefully examine the musculo-skeletal system of a down cow. This paper will discuss techniques for the examination of the back, pelvis, hind and fore limbs. It will include static and motion palpation, sensory and motor function tests. Neuropathies of the sciatic and femoral nerves can be graded to quantify their level of damage. The use of enzyme tests as a prognostic guide for the compartment syndrome will also be discussed.