Lameness in horses is a frequent yet dangerous problem that can impair an equine’s quality of life and ability to perform. Whether your horse is a leisure companion, a competition athlete, or a working animal, identifying lameness early and knowing who to call for assistance is critical. Seeking the advice of a horse lameness and surgery specialist can make a significant difference in detecting and treating the underlying problem efficiently.
Identifying Lameness in Horses
Lameness refers to an aberrant gait or movement caused by discomfort, injury, or a mechanical problem. It might range from slight discomfort to serious mobility difficulties. Common signs include:
Uneven movement, or limping
Reluctance to bear weight on one leg.
swelling, heat, or sensitivity in joints or hooves.
Stiffness or unwillingness to move forward
Behaviour changes, such as irritation when riding
If you see any of these symptoms, you need to act promptly. The first step is to determine the severity of the lameness and contact the appropriate horse lameness & surgery specialist for an assessment.
Who should I call first?
If your horse is lame, your first point of contact should be an equine veterinarian or a horse lameness and surgery specialist. Depending on the severity, many professionals may need to be involved.
Equine Vet – For a general assessment, visit your usual vet first. They can conduct an initial inspection and determine whether additional inquiry is required.
Farrier – If the lameness is hoof-related, such as an abscess, inadequate shoeing, or a hoof imbalance, a trained farrier may be able to help.
Horse Lameness and Surgery Specialist – If your veterinarian suspects a more complex musculoskeletal problem, they will send you to a specialist for sophisticated diagnostics and treatment.
When to Contact a Horse Lameness and Surgery Specialist.
Not all lameness problems necessitate specialised intervention, but some do. Consult a horse lameness and surgery specialist if:
Your horse’s lameness continues after basic therapy.
A visible damage to tendons, ligaments, or joints
The veterinarian recommends additional imaging (such as an MRI, X-rays, or ultrasound).
Your horse has a fracture and requires surgical surgery.
Chronic or intermittent lameness impacts performance or comfort.
These specialists are highly skilled at diagnosing and treating illnesses such as tendon injuries, joint ailments, fractures, and soft tissue damage.
Diagnostic Procedures Used by a Horse Lameness and Surgery Specialist.
Once sent to a professional, your horse will be thoroughly evaluated to determine the exact cause of lameness. Common diagnostic approaches include the following:
Lameness Exams – The professional will examine the horse at various gaits and surfaces to assess mobility.
Flexion tests entail applying pressure to certain joints to locate the source of pain.
Nerve Blocks – Local anaesthetic injections can assist pinpoint the source of discomfort.
Advanced Imaging – X-rays, ultrasonography, MRI, and CT scans provide precise information about bone and soft tissue structures.
An accurate diagnosis is critical in developing a successful treatment plan.
Treatment Options for Lameness:
After the physician has determined the cause, treatment will be tailored to the individual condition. Here are some common approaches:
Rest and Rehabilitation – Mild instances may necessitate restricted rest and progressive rehabilitation exercises.
Anti-inflammatory medicines, joint injections, and pain relievers can help with symptoms.
Corrective Shoeing – A qualified farrier can make hoof balance changes to reduce stress on damaged regions.
Physiotherapy and hydrotherapy can assist strengthen muscles and aid in healing.
Surgical Intervention – In severe circumstances, a horse lameness and surgery specialist may conduct arthroscopy, fracture repair, or ligament restoration.
Early and adequate intervention greatly improves the chances of complete recovery.
Preventing Lameness in Horses
It is always better to prevent than to cure. To reduce the chance of lameness.
Schedule regular farrier visits to ensure good foot care.
To avoid strain, stick to a consistent exercise routine.
Provide a well-balanced diet to promote joint and bone health.
Use appropriate equipment and ensure a suitable saddle fit.
Schedule regular veterinary check-ups to identify problems early.
Despite these measures, lameness can still occur, making access to a horse lameness and surgery specialist critical when required.
Conclusion
Lameness in horses can be a stressful situation, but knowing who to call can make all the difference. Your first step should always be to call an equine veterinarian, who may then recommend you to a horse lameness and surgery specialist for additional evaluation and treatment. By responding early and getting expert assistance, you maximise your horse’s chances of recovery and long-term soundness.