Foot injury on roo...advice?

[GardenTillers44]

I noticed our Orpington roo limping and acting lame a few days ago and at first thought it was a symptom of what has killed a couple of our flock the last few weeks (possible Marek's-necropsy pending from other birds). We quarantined him and today I took a closer look since he had not progressed with the symptoms like the others had. The roo has developed a large subcutaneous lump on the bottom of his foot (see pic). It looks to me like he may have a thorn or splinter that has caused the swelling. You can barely see in the photo a dark pimple at the head of the swelling that might be point of injury. I would probably perform a little surgery on myself it if it were my injury , but not sure how to proceed with the 12 lb roo to determine exactly what it is. The nearest vet that will look at our chickens is 2 hours away. Any thoughts and/or advice?

 

[Kiki]

Bumble foot.

Bumblefoot How To Treat Your Chickens With Surgery Graphic Pics

 

[GardenTillers44]

KikisGirls, post: "Bumble foot."

Thanks!!! I had heard of this and seen references to it, but didn't connect the dots. I'll dive into the threads and articles. I have a good set of stainless surgical instruments from my necropsy days at the Houston Zoo. Guess it's time to put them to work!

 

[GardenTillers44]

I may try this less invasive method before putting him under the knife. Will let you know how it goes.

https://www.tillysnest.com/2015/12/non-surgical-bumblefoot-treatment.html/?spref=pi

 

[Kiki]

I had added the link to my first post...it took me a second to go find it, to add.

 

[GardenTillers44]

We set up a triage table and soaking pan for the roo and captured him for the procedure. To my surprise, the foot was markedly better. Swelling down and it was hard to see where the dark bump was on the foot. You can still see where the foot pad had some damage. He still favors the foot a little, but is starting to run around and chase the ladies again. We decided to let nature take it's course this time and will check every couple of days to make sure it completely heals. I was all set to take photos of the procedure, but no complaints here! Thanks, KikisGirls for getting me familiar with Bumblefoot. We now check the feet with that in mind during our mite & lice checks.

 

[GardenTillers44]

KikisGirls: "Bumble foot."

Checked foot again today and it looks almost back to normal. You can still see an indent and spot on the right side of the center pad as you are looking at it, but swelling is almost totally gone and he's not favoring the foot like he was. He started breeding the hens again and seems back to his old self. I'm so glad we didn't have to do anything invasive this time. We now have a good medical kit ready for the next time though! Thanks for your help...

 

[Kiki]

KikisGirls: "Bumble foot."

Checked foot again today and it looks almost back to normal. You can still see an indent and spot on the right side of the center pad as you are looking at it, but swelling is almost totally gone and he's not favoring the foot like he was. He started breeding the hens again and seems back to his old self. I'm so glad we didn't have to do anything invasive this time. We now have a good medical kit ready for the next time though! Thanks for your help...View attachment 1117488

Awesome!
Congrats!