Lameness Work Ups

Hetty’s primary area of interest lies in lameness and diagnostic imaging. With fully mobile diagnostic equipment (xray and ultrasound), lameness work ups can be carried out at your yard.

Step 1:  A detailed history is collected and a thorough palpation of the horse is carried out to see if any abnormalities can be detected.  Your horse will be examined at walk and trot in both a straight line and on the lunge. If necessary, we will watch the horse ridden as some problems may only be evident under saddle. Flexion tests will be performed before and after exercise if necessary.

Step 2: If there is a consistent lameness present, then nerve blocks are a sensible next step. By temporarily desensitising areas of the limb and reassessing the lameness, the source of the lameness can be determined.

Step 3: Relevant imaging can be carried out once the source of the lameness has been determined. This may involve xrays and or ultrasound initially.

Step 4: If a diagnosis is established following the first 3 steps, then treatment options will be discussed and carried out.

If further imaging is required e.g. MRI, CT or bone scan – then a referral will be arranged by Hampton Equine Vets, to make the experience as stress free as possible.

Throughout the process we will work in close communication with the other professionals in your team – this will include your farrier, physiotherapist, chiropractor or osteopath. A team approach is vital to a successful outcome.

As an RCVS recognised advanced practitioner in Equine Lameness, Hetty is happy to see second opinion orthopaedic cases.  As per the RCVS guidance, the primary treating vet must be informed and the previous clinical history shared prior to the appointment.