Equine Lameness Diagnosis

Veterinary Services

We have state of the art equipment to diagnose and treat lameness in your horse at your yard.

All our specialist Veterinary Surgeons are highly experienced in lameness examinations and carry radiographic and scanning equipment. We have four instant digital equine radiograph (x-ray) machines which can be used when several areas of your horse need to be imaged. This equipment gives us the ability to perform an investigation where your horse is relaxed in its own environment and eliminates the need to travel to a facility. Our Vets are also trained to perform advanced treatments such as shockwave treatment, PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) and IRAP (Interleuken Receptor Antagonist Protein) therapies.

Unknown Lameness

Equine lameness can present in a multitude of different ways. Direct trauma and injuries are obviously very common causes of lameness and may need a number of wound repair treatments. These can range from stitching and bandaging wounds to leaving them open with application of products such as Manuka honey. More subtle lameness can be more difficult to asses and detect, particularly when affecting the hind limbs. This may present as reluctance to work, under-performance, reduced quality of movement, a sore back, behavioral issues or a change in temperament. Picking up these conditions in the early stages is important as treatment can be initiated before the problem becomes severe.

If you think your horse might be lame / have performance issues, please get in touch so that we can help.

Please also visit our related information pages on TENDON INJURIES and X-RAYS & SCANNING.

Case Examples

As an example, several horses are presented to us each year with a ‘bad back’. When investigated, they are often showing mild hind limb lameness which has lead to the back becoming sore secondarily. The lameness can be caused by diseases affecting the bone and soft tissue, for example osteoarthritis (OA). Like people, this is more common later in life but it does not exclusively affect the older horse. OA can be managed using a number of techniques such as Injections into the joint spaces. This is a relatively common procedure and involves the injection of corticosteroids and lubricating substances such as sodium hyaluronate. If successfully identified and treated, the horses performance and welfare can be greatly improved.

For any lameness condition, there is likely to be a number of different treatment options available. Our team are on hand to provide lameness examinations and to find the root cause of the problem, before preparing a treatment plan to help your horse become sound again. We understand the reality of horse ownership and will endeavor to work out the best option for your horse.

In addition to our mobile equipment, our referred services include MRI, CT and Bone Scanning (scintigraphy). We are committed to providing excellent care and a professional service to all our clients.