Baby Indian Runner duck with slipped tendon

[kimirenerussell]

Hi everyone,

So we had 7 babies last week with two having leg problems. Baby #1 "Tiger Lily" had such badly deformed legs - one was twisted backwards overtop of her wing. She couldn't get around by herself so I was helping her eat and drink and after a day trip with my girl's class I think she couldn't get enough nourishment and she died. Sad, but I'm relieved that I didn't have to make any decision about euthanasia.

Baby #2 "Luna" (can you tell I have a 5 year old girl who named them all!?) can move both legs. But the feet look curled and twisted inwards and the left leg has a swollen joint. She is able to get around and feed herself and almost keep up with the rest of the flock. Took her to the exotic vet yesterday and the left has a slipped tendon which they tried to move back and they said it was too tight and kept slipping back. Today we are going to see my animal chiropractor to show us some stretches to lengthen the tendon and hopefully get it back into place. Also thinking active release therapy could help.

Has anyone had success with this type of injury on their ducks? I am also thinking I should tape the feet extended as well. Any advice is appreciated. I have done lots of searching on this site but it's mostly about chicks.

Also, which side (outer or inner) does the achilles tendon run? I feel like I can push it over but not sure if it's the right place. Don't want to hurt our little baby.

Thanks,
Kim

 

[Amiga]

I am thinking Duckyfromoz has dealt with slipped tendon, but I cannot recall what she did. I may misremember, but I think she may have recommended thiamine for nutritional support.

Also, leg problems in general seem to respond to extra niacin. The rule of thumb (from Storey's Guide) is 100 to 150 mg niacin per gallon of water for several weeks.

A splint may also help. Something with some flex in it, like a coffee stirrer, with some vet wrap, perhaps? Folks have come up with a number of designs.

Some time in warm (85ish F) water may help - not very long, but it might stimulate circulation and muscle movement.

Try a search on "slipped tendon" duckling