5 year old knees cracking

Question
We went to look at a 3 year old kentucky mountain horse and her from knees make a crackling sound when lifted and also while she is walking .. Do you have an idea what this can be?

Answer
HELLO PATRICIA...THANKS FOR YOUR QUESTION...

YES...being just 3 years old,is rare and "probably" is caused by some kind of trauma as a filly
or deviation/crooked/un-balanced front limbs which cause undue pressure to the knees/carpus.

Her front limbs/legs are like pieces of many puzzles. There are 9 bones below the knee. Because horses are front-end heavy(approx. 60/65% of there weight is in the front end)the knees especially take a beating as they grow to their 2 yr. old year. Complicate that with the lack of
proper trimming as a youngster, any injuries no matter "how minor" and cartilage and soft tissue
are changed. Many times, even after something obvious, and swelling goes down the young horse
will still have changes that will last a life time !!

There are 7 bones/carpals in the knees. Six in front, one accessory carpal behind.Many times the noise or clicking is cartilage popping or even bone slightly rubbing.

IF you are interested in this mare and everything such as attitude,confirmation,and ability are
what you want, then DEFINITELY have an equine vet check exam her or maybe take a radiograph
of both knees and be reassured that you will be "good-to-go" with her.

One last thing...DON'T BE MISLED in believing that it is "nothing" or she will "grow out of it".
It MAY NOT be serious which only a vet can tell you, but the noise you are hearing is changes in her knees and should be checked out by a professional.

The Best to You !!
Joepaul Meyers,C.J.F.