SPLINTS
These happen when bone is damaged, most often just below the knee, and results in extra bone being formed often in large lumps.
The causes can include a kick or blow, working on hard ground and poor shoeing and most often affect younger horses under 6 years. A splint is often painful with a lot of inflammation and can cause lameness especially if the suspensory ligament is involved.
Treating the inflammation is the first step to reduce pain, cold hosing, ice packs and rest can help and your vet. is likely to use 'bute and DMSO ointment to rub into the area.
It should be remembered that inflammation is a natural healing process as more blood is directed to an injury to assist in the healing process, so to stop it all together could be counter-productive. Unless the suspensory ligament is badly affected or arthritis in the knee is a threat, surgery is not likely to be suggested.