Hypothesis 1:  

Asymmetric growth of the metaphysis/epiphysis of the metacarpal bone induced by a 
dystocia resulting in a valgus limb deformity.  The bull calf was a difficult pull and 
required the use of birthing chains and a Frank Calf Jack.  The chains were not positioned 
properly on the third metacarpal and the carpal bones.  Therefore excess stress was 
placed across the distal metacarpal growth plate and resulted in abnormal joint growth.  
Joint stress in the form of traumatic tension on the lateral side of the metacarpal 
growth plate caused this portion of the growth plate to stop proliferating or greatly 
decrease its growth rate.  The medial side of the growth plate continued to grow at a 
normal rate; however it was pulled in a lateral direction since it was growing faster than 
the lateral portion of the growth plate. 

In addition to the asymmetric growth of distal metacarpus there is evidently a metacarpal 
fracture indicated by crepitus and bone instability.  There are superficial wounds present 
on the distal metacarpus  and draining exudate is also present, these clinical signs are 
consistent with cutaneous, intrasynovial, or osteomyelitic lesions.