Equine Lameness Exams
Equine Lameness Exams: Getting to the Root of the Problem
What to Expect During the Exam:
- History & Observation
We’ll ask about your horse’s workload, recent changes, and what symptoms you’ve noticed. We begin with a full-body visual exam and check for symmetry, posture, and hoof condition. - Palpation & Flexion Tests
We carefully feel the limbs, joints, tendons, and hooves for heat, swelling, or sensitivity. Then we may perform flexion tests, where we briefly hold a joint in a flexed position before trotting the horse to assess any pain response. - Movement Evaluation
Your horse will be observed at a walk and trot in hand, on a straight line and/or in circles (on hard and/or soft footing). We may use lunging or evaluate under saddle depending on the case. - Nerve or Joint Blocks (Diagnostic Anesthesia)
If the lameness isn’t immediately obvious, we may use local anesthetic to “block” specific nerves or joints one at a time. This helps pinpoint the exact source of pain by watching for improvement in movement after each block. - Imaging
Once the area is localized, we may recommend radiographs (X-rays) and/or ultrasound to see what’s happening inside the bone or soft tissue. In some cases, advanced imaging like MRI or nuclear scintigraphy may be suggested.
When Is It Needed?
You might notice:
- Uneven gaits or reluctance to move
- Head bobbing or stiffness
- Changes in performance or behavior
- Swelling, heat, or sensitivity in a leg or joint
If so, a lameness exam can help determine what’s going on.
Goal: A Clear Diagnosis & Treatment Plan
Our goal is to find the underlying cause of your horse’s discomfort and create a targeted plan for recovery—whether that involves rest, medications, corrective hoof care, joint therapy, or rehabilitation.
Why Early Diagnosis Matters
Catching issues early can prevent more serious injury, speed up healing, and help your horse return to work safely and comfortably.
Veterinary Services in Yuma, AZ
Adoptions
Diagnostic Lab Services
Disbudding/
Dehorning
Endoscopy
Equine Dentistry
Equine Gastroscopy
Equine Veterinary Services
Equine End-of-Life Care
Equine Ultrasound
Equine and Livestock Health Certificates
Equine Endoscopy
Equine Radiology
Equine Lameness Exams
Equine Microchipping
Equine Vaccination
Equine Preventative Care Exam
Equine Osteopathic Adjustments
Feral Cat Care
Gastroscopy
Herd and Flock Exams
Hospice and End-of-Life Care
Home Euthanasia Services
Lameness Exams
Laser Therapy
Livestock & Small Ruminants
Livestock Vaccinations
Microchipping
Nutrition
Osteopathic Adjustments
Parasite Control
Poultry and Waterfowl
Pot Belly and Mini Pig Care
Preventative Herd and Flock Exams
Preventative Care Exam
Radiology
Small Animal Preventative Care Exam
Small Animal Dentistry
Surgery
Spays and Neuters
Small Ruminant Care
Small Animal Services
Small Animal Health Certificates
Ultrasound
Vaccinations