Page 149 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse

• When is the lameness most marked? Is there anything that consistently makes it worse?

• Does the lameness improve or become worse with exercise?
VetBooks.ir • Does it improve with rest?

•
Is the lameness more obvious on a hard or soft surface? Foot problems are likely to be
worse on hard going whereas soft tissue injuries, e.g. proximal suspensory or tendon
problems may be exacerbated on soft going.

• Is it more obvious on a circle?

• Does the horse stumble?

Swellings and Heat
• Has any swelling or heat been detected? If either have been present, do they increase or

decrease with exercise?

Stance
• Has the horse changed the way it stands at rest?

• Does the horse consistently rest or point one limb?

• Does the horse frequently shift its weight from one foot to the other?

• Is the horse lying down any more than usual or experiencing difficulty in getting up?

Management

It is important to know if the lameness is associated with any change in routine or

management. For example, if there has been a change of:
• rider

• training programme

• saddle

• bit

• shoeing
• amount of turnout

• diet.

Previous treatment

Finally, it is important to know if the horse has been given any treatment and whether it