Lameness Evaluation of the Athletic Horse.

The research article explores the process of diagnosing lameness in athletic horses, the importance of an experienced diagnostician with strong observational skills, and the steps included in the evaluation process.

Lameness Evaluation Process

• The examination of lameness starts with a detailed collection of the horse’s history and a thorough physical examination. This means the diagnostician collects data about the horse’s physical activities, past injuries or specific actions that might have led to lameness.
• The next stage involves gait evaluation, where the horse is made to move and its movements are observed for asymmetry or any abnormal behaviour. The distinctive feature of lame horses is their asymmetrical body movement due to a shift of body weight that occurs unconsciously.
• Additionally, the recognition of a head nod or a pelvic hike in the horse’s movements can further signify lameness. This is vital for the diagnostician to identify any deviation in standard locomotion.

Lameness Identification Strategies

• The identification of lameness can also be enhanced using circling, limb flexions, and riding, depending on the condition and comfort of the horse.
• Contrary to regular belief, not all lame horses exhibit explicit (pathognomonic) gait characteristics. Therefore, purely relying on visual gait analysis might not conclude an accurate diagnosis.
• Instead, diagnostic analgesia, which involves the application of analgesics to alleviate pain temporarily, is considered the best method to verify the underlying sources of pain causing lameness. This is typically performed through local anaesthesia of specific regions to identify the area causing issue.

The Role of the Diagnostician

• The role of an adept lameness diagnostician also comes into focus through this research. A diagnostician must possess keen clinical and observational abilities as the examination involves understanding and assessing body movements and physical conditions that are usually subtle.
• The diagnostician must be able to link the horse’s history with its physical examination results and observed movement patterns to successfully identify the cause of lameness. Thus, a combination of experience, observation, and comprehensive testing aids in the complex process of diagnosing lameness in athletic horses.