Volume 16, Issue 1: 2026 - Article 212

Abstract
The third peroneal muscle (musculus peroneus tertius or musculus fibularis tertius) in horses is entirely tendinous and plays a crucial role in the reciprocal apparatus, which synchronizes the flexion and extension of the stifle and hock joints. Rupture of this muscle presents with distinctive clinical signs, most notably the inability of the hock to flex during forward movement of the pelvic limb. Additionally, passive limb flexion reveals independent movement of the hock and stifle, which is abnormal. Trauma is the most common cause of this injury, with ruptures occurring at various sites, including the mid-body of the muscle, its insertion or its origin. Imaging techniques such as ultrasonography and radiography are essential for accurately identifying the rupture site. The prognosis varies depending on the severity and location of the rupture. The present case report detailed the aetiology, diagnostic approach and treatment of third peroneal muscle rupture in a five-year-old Argentine mare. The mare presented with reluctance to walk and trembling of the right hind limb, a day after exercise. Diagnosis of rupture of the peroneus tertius muscle was made based on physical examination, radiography and ultrasonography. The case was managed by giving the mare stall rest for two months, application of anti-inflammatory agents and supportive vitamin therapy. The mare recovered and was re-introduced to exercise after stall rest.

Keywords: Third peroneal muscle; Rupture; Horse (Equine); Lameness; Hock joint.

How to cite this article:
Maina UA, Abdullahi AM, Galadima HB, Idris MA and Ngulde SI (2025). Rupture of the peroneus tertius muscle in a five-year-old Argentine mare: A case report. Journal of Veterinary and Applied Sciences, 16(1): 1293 – 1299.


*Correspondence: E-mail:     mainaumar26@unimaid.edu.ng     Phone: +2348066233100

Rupture of the peroneus tertius muscle in a five-year-old Argentine mare: A case report
Umar A. Maina ^{1, 2, *}, Adama M. Abdullahi ², Haruna B. Galadima ³, Mohammed A. Idris ² and Saidu I. Ngulde <sup>1

1</sup> Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Maiduguri, PMB 1069 Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria.
² Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Maiduguri, PMB 1069 Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria
³ Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Maiduguri, PMB 1069 Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria.

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