Injured leg

[gurls momma]

My hen is suddenly limping and won't put weight on her right foot. She was free ranging and I had checked on her 20 minutes before she started limping. I have no idea what happened. Her leg doesn't appear to be broken. When she tries to put weight on her foot her wing goes out and she falls. I've never had to give my hens any medical treatment. She is resting in the run right now. Please, I need advice. Thank you.

 

[MrsBrooke]

https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/713499/my-chicken-sling-pic

Check this thread out with good pictures on how to make a chicken sling.

It's possible she slipped off the roost and twisted her hock, hip, or ankle... Bring her inside and keep her in a dim, quiet, warm place. Pop her in your cool new chicken swing with food and water within reach... Mix some Turmeric (yellow Indian spice) in her food to help bring down her inflammation.

Just like if you sprained YOUR ankle, you'll need to keep her weight off of it for a week or two until she heals up.

Keep us posted!

MrsB

PS - Check the bottom of her right foot for a little black scab. If she has that, it's bumblefoot and requires a different treatment. Let us know!

 

[gurls momma]

Mrs. B,
Thank you for the information. So, it looks like it is bumble foot. I had never heard of that. I am grateful for the information. I looked up treatment and I am not good with the thought of taking a blade to my hen. I think I'll be taking her to the vet tomorrow. If you have any different suggestions to treat bumble foot I'd appreciate it.

 

[MrsBrooke]

Unfortunately, the only way to fix it is get the infection out and apply antibiotics... your vet may give you a prescription antibiotic for the infection.

MrsB