Stress, strain or injury can take a toll on any horse, even one with no obvious conformation defects. When lameness occurs, you should contact your veterinarian promptly. A prompt examination can save you time, money and frustration by diagnosing and treating the problem immediately, possibly preventing further damage. The goal of such early examinations is to keep small problems from becoming big ones.
Examination Procedures:
- The medical history of the horse.
- A visual appraisal of the horse at rest.
- A thorough hands-on exam.
- Application of hoof testers to the feet.
- Evaluation of the horse in motion.
- Joint flexion tests.
Diagnostic Tests:
- Diagnostic nerve and joint blocks.
- Radiographs
- Ultrasound (Sonography)
- Blood, synovial (joint) fluid, and tissue samples.