Lameness in horses can lead to chronic pain, reduced performance, and even early retirement. Traditionally, soft tissue injuries were treated with extensive rest and controlled exercise, but many horses would reinjure themselves upon returning to work. At Countryside Equine Hospital, we offer cutting-edge, advanced regenerative medicine to promote healing, reduce inflammation, and aid in the repair of joints, tendons, and ligaments. Our therapies harness the body's natural healing abilities to promote effective recovery and long-term soundness.
If your horse seems "off," is resisting work, or showing signs of lameness, don’t wait. Contact us at (770) 787-4711 for an appointment with our experienced equine sports medicine team.
Equine Lameness
Lameness is any deviation from normal movement caused by pain or restricted range of motion. While commonly associated with the limbs, lameness can also originate from discomfort in the neck, withers, shoulders, back, loin, or hips. Some cases present as obvious limping, while others show up in more subtle ways—like difficulty picking up the correct lead, resistance to jumping, or a change in attitude under saddle.
Veterinarians use a standardized 0 to 5 grading scale to assess lameness, ranging from sound (0) to non-weight bearing (5). Because the signs can be subtle, early detection is key. If you notice an issue, a comprehensive lameness exam can pinpoint the underlying cause and guide an effective treatment plan.
Lameness Diagnostic Tools
To pinpoint the source of your horse’s lameness, we may implement any of the following diagnostic tools:
- Comprehensive movement evaluations (flexion tests, lunging, under-saddle assessments)
- Nerve blocks
- Digital wireless radiography
- High-resolution ultrasound imaging
- Endoscopy for airway and throat evaluations
- Echocardiograms
- Muscle biopsies
- Genetic testing
Prompt diagnosis and treatment can save time, money, and frustration while protecting your horse’s long-term soundness.
Advanced Treatments for Sports Injuries
When an injury does occur, effective treatment is key to a successful recovery. Our approach blends cutting-edge therapies with time-tested veterinary expertise, ensuring the best possible outcome for your horse.
Treatments we commonly use for equine sports injuries include:
- Customized farrier and shoeing recommendations
- Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)
- Joint injections (hock, stifle, coffin, navicular bursa, fetlock, pastern, tendon sheath)
- Back and neck injections
- Sacroiliac (SI) joint injections
- Regenerative medicine (PRP, IRAP, Pro-Stride)
- Tailored rehabilitation programs
- Class IV Laser Therapy for pain management and healing
- Targeted anti-inflammatory medications and topical NSAIDs
- Stretching and strength-building exercise regimens
Each treatment plan is customized based on your horse’s discipline, medical history, and long-term performance goals.
A Collaborative Approach to Equine Performance
Your horse’s success is a team effort. As an owner, you know your horse best. By working together, we can develop a comprehensive plan that keeps your equine athlete healthy, sound, and competition-ready.
Ensure your horse is ready to perform at the top of their game. Give us a call at (770) 787-4711 or book an appointment online.