[Hock lesions in dairy cows--an overview]

Hock lesions are the most common husbandry-related disease of the locomotor system in dairy cattle. These conditions are referred to as technopathies. The prevalence of tarsal lesions ranges from 40 to 70% and thus, from a welfare standpoint, clearly exceeds an acceptable level. These lesions usually indicate inadequate stall or cubicle design in dairy barns. The presence and severity of hock lesions are associated with lameness and other limb disorders as well as mastitis and reduced milk yield. Hock lesions therefore influence animal welfare and production. Epidemiological and behavioural studies have shown that a manure pack covered with straw is associated with the lowest prevalence of lesions, followed by sand bedding, provided that the lying space is adequate.