Thoroughbred racehorses are susceptible to any and all of the commonly described conditions that affect soundness in the horse. This discussion does not include every conceivable ailment or orthopedic condition that afflicts these animals. Rather, it confines itself to a few specific conditions of the racing Thoroughbred that are either unique to their particular endeavor or so overwhelmingly important to a successful racing career that they must, of necessity, be discussed.