Document type : article published inThe Horse
Author: Casey Gruber
Limping of the forefoot in horses: Don't forget the exam
Owner-provided information and a thorough lameness examination can help veterinarians start meaningful investigations into front foot lamenesses.
Lameness arising in the front feet accounts for most soundness issues in horses. However, it has been and continues to be difficult for veterinarians to diagnose a specific injury or source of pain within the foot because the structures can be tough to capture with imaging equipment. Over time, as medical knowledge has expanded, radiography has improved, and MRI has been incorporated into equine practice, we've learned a lot about the hoof capsule's complex anatomy and physiology. The more we understand, the more injuries we can identify. This knowledge has opened doors to many treatment options in the veterinarian's toolbox. With an accurate diagnosis, the veterinarian can formulate a proper treatment plan and provide an accurate forecast on the horse's prognosis.
In spite of these advances, it's still important for veterinarians to complete a thorough clinical exam. Visual and hands-on assessment of the horse can provide important clues as to the problem. This information often yields a wealth of knowledge that will help guide the need for diagnostic imaging.
