In-hand means the horse is being assessed while led from the ground, rather than ridden. Some issues are easier to see in hand, while others only appear under saddle, so comparison can be useful.
Inflammation is the body's response to injury or irritation. It may be linked with heat, swelling, pain or reduced function. Many lameness problems involve inflammation, but the underlying cause still needs to be identified.
This quiz is educational, not diagnostic. It helps you check what you already know and learn what vets often ask owners to look for.
Owner-first guides to help you notice patterns, reduce worry and feel prepared for your next vet visit.
Treating without diagnosing can work. But it can also mean months of time, money and effort spent managing a problem rather than solving it, while the underlying cause quietly becomes harder to treat.
Treating without diagnosing can work. But it can also mean months of time, money and effort spent managing a problem rather than solving it, while the underlying cause quietly becomes harder to treat.
Proximal suspensory injuries are a common cause of lameness and poor performance in horses. Clinical signs can vary depending on whether the forelimbs or hindlimbs are affected, and a thorough lameness examination is essential to localise the source of pain.
