Field study of the prevalence of lameness in horses with back problems.

The research article discusses the prevalence of lameness in a population of horses suffering from orthopaedic issues, in which a significant correlation was noted between lameness and back problems.

Study Population and Methodology

• The study involved a careful examination of a population of 805 horses. These were mainly dressage horses (70%), followed by show jumpers (20%), and trotters (10%). These horses were already suffering from some kind of orthopaedic problem.
• These horses were studied for signs of lameness and back problems, regardless of their initial health complaints.

Results and Observations

• From the horss with identified back problems, 74 percent were found to be lame.
• Back problems were diagnosed in 32 percent of those suffering lameness. These percentages significantly differed from those observed in a control population of 399 horses, wherein only 20 percent were found lame and 12 percent had back issues.

Conclusion

• The study confirmed a strong association between lameness and back problems in the group of horses with orthopaedic issues.
• There was a high prevalence of lameness especially among horses suffering from back problems.

The research indicates that preventative measures or treatments aimed at improving back health could potentially reduce the instances of lameness in horses with such orthopaedic problems. More detailed studies would be required to understand the mechanisms causing this association.