Lameness in horses is a common yet serious issue that can impact an equine’s quality of life and ability to perform. Whether your horse is a leisure companion, a competition athlete, or a working animal, recognising lameness early and knowing who to contact for help is essential. Seeking the expertise of a horse lameness & surgery specialist can make all the difference in diagnosing and treating the underlying cause effectively.
Recognising Lameness in Horses
Lameness refers to an abnormal gait or movement resulting from pain, injury, or a mechanical issue. It can range from mild discomfort to severe mobility issues. Common signs include:
- Uneven movement or limping
- Reluctance to bear weight on a particular leg
- Swelling, heat, or sensitivity in joints or hooves
- Stiffness or reluctance to move forward
- Changes in behaviour, such as irritability when being ridden
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to act quickly. The first step is determining the severity of the lameness and contacting the right professional for assessment.
Who to Call First?
If your horse exhibits lameness, your first point of contact should be an equine vet or a horse lameness & surgery specialist. Depending on the severity, different professionals may need to be involved:
- Equine Vet – Your regular vet should be the first person you contact for a general assessment. They can perform an initial examination and decide whether further investigation is needed.
- Farrier – If the lameness appears hoof-related, such as an abscess, poor shoeing, or a hoof imbalance, a skilled farrier may be able to address the issue.
- Horse Lameness & Surgery Specialist – If the vet suspects a more complex musculoskeletal issue, they will refer you to a specialist for advanced diagnostics and treatment.
When to Contact a Horse Lameness & Surgery Specialist
Not all lameness cases require specialist intervention, but certain situations do. Contact a horse lameness & surgery specialist if:
- Your horse’s lameness persists despite basic treatment
- There is a visible injury to tendons, ligaments, or joints
- The vet recommends further imaging (such as MRI, X-rays, or ultrasound)
- Your horse has suffered a fracture or requires surgical intervention
- Chronic or intermittent lameness affects performance or comfort
These specialists have advanced knowledge in diagnosing and treating conditions such as tendon injuries, joint diseases, fractures, and soft tissue damage.
Diagnostic Procedures Used by a Horse Lameness & Surgery Specialist
Once referred to a specialist, your horse will undergo a thorough evaluation to pinpoint the exact cause of lameness. Common diagnostic methods include:
- Lameness Exams – The specialist will observe the horse at different gaits and surfaces to assess movement.
- Flexion Tests – These tests involve applying pressure to specific joints to identify pain sources.
- Nerve Blocks – Local anaesthetic injections help determine the location of pain.
- Advanced Imaging – X-rays, ultrasound, MRI, and CT scans provide detailed insights into bone and soft tissue structures.
A proper diagnosis is crucial in formulating an effective treatment plan.
Treatment Options for Lameness
Once the specialist has identified the cause, treatment will be tailored to the specific condition. Common approaches include:
- Rest and Rehabilitation – Mild cases may require controlled rest and gradual rehabilitation exercises.
- Medication – Anti-inflammatory drugs, joint injections, and pain relief medication can manage symptoms.
- Corrective Shoeing – A specialist farrier can provide hoof balance adjustments to relieve stress on affected areas.
- Physiotherapy & Hydrotherapy – These therapies can help strengthen muscles and aid recovery.
- Surgical Intervention – For severe cases, a horse lameness & surgery specialist may perform procedures such as arthroscopy, fracture repair, or ligament reconstruction.
Early and appropriate intervention significantly increases the chances of full recovery.
Preventing Lameness in Horses
Prevention is always better than cure. To minimise the risk of lameness:
- Ensure regular farrier visits for proper hoof care.
- Maintain an appropriate exercise regime to avoid strain.
- Provide a balanced diet to support joint and bone health.
- Use proper tack and ensure correct saddle fit.
- Schedule routine veterinary check-ups to detect issues early.
Despite all precautions, lameness can still occur, making access to a horse lameness & surgery specialist essential when needed.
Conclusion
Lameness in horses can be a distressing issue, but knowing who to call can make all the difference. Your first step should always be contacting an equine vet, who may then refer you to a horse lameness & surgery specialist for further assessment and treatment. By acting quickly and seeking expert advice, you give your horse the best chance of recovery and long-term soundness.