Page 146 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse

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VetBooks.ir EXAMINATION OF THE LAME OR POOR

PERFORMANCE HORSE

There are many causes of lameness and this chapter outlines the procedures that may be used
in order to make a diagnosis.

DEFINITION OF LAMENESS

The ‘normal’ conformation and action of horses varies considerably. Lameness can be
defined as any change in the horse’s usual way of moving. It is therefore helpful to be

familiar with each individual horse’s action.

Whether slight or severe, lameness is usually a sign of pain. The horse should not be
worked until the problem has been investigated and the cause identified and treated.

WHEN TO CALL THE VET

The following guidelines are suggested to help you decide when to call the vet. Immediate
attention must be given to horses which are:

• unable to bear any weight on a limb

• unable to move
• trembling and sweating due to pain.

Immediate attention must also be given to those which have:
• a nasty wound

• synovial fluid leaking from a wound

• severe swelling of a limb

• a puncture wound in the foot

• suspected ligament or tendon injuries