Lameness Work-ups
At Backstretch we understand the importance of a thorough lameness workup to reach an accurate diagnosis. Some lamenesses can be rather straightforward such as a hoof abscess, while others can be quite complex requiring quite a bit of diagnostics to find a cause.

There are many components to lameness examinations. Sometimes the best tools we have are the simplest ones. We start with a thorough history taking and physical exam.  Watching the horse travel in hand, on the lunge and under saddle over various terrain, feeling for obvious or subtle changes in the limbs, and reactions to palpation and flexion tests are invaluable parts of a lameness exam. Nerve/joint anesthesia to eliminate areas of pain may also be necessary to narrow down the affected area.  Imaging would then be performed to make the final diagnosis and allow us to make a plan for recovery and an estimation of prognosis.

There are, however, some situations that escape the limitations of what can be done on site. Consultation and referral to a hospital for further diagnostics may be suggested. Many of the local hospitals have more in depth diagnostic equipment such as Bone Scan (Nuclear Scintigraphy), MRI, and ultrasound specialists which may be needed to aid in a diagnosis. Our goal it to keep your equine partner sound and performing well throughout his career.