A curb is a swelling of the Back of the hind leg below the Hock. This swelling is caused by an inflammation (heat & swelling) and thickening by the plantar ligament. New bone growth may occur. Depending on the type of damage, a curb may not be permanent.

Curb may be due to a Conformation problem or an injury. Horses that have sickle hocks and are cow hocked are more likely to have a curb because of stress to the plantar ligament. Horses with normal conformation can get curb violently attempting to straighten the hocks.

If a curb has been caused by an injury, treat the leg to reduce the swelling. It does not usually cause lameness.