What Lameness Examinations involve
The investigations required for lameness examinations greatly depend upon each individual case. The following are some of the relevant diagnostic techniques that we may use and the veterinary surgeon who is assessing your horse will discuss with you those that are relevant, together with the plan for your horse:
Nerve blocks (diagnostic analgesia)
Nuclear scintigraphy (bone scanning)
Radiography
Ultrasonography
MRI (Magnetic resonance imaging)
Thermography
Equinalysis (gait assessment)
Depending on the case, the total investigation can involve several days work and therefore please be prepared to leave your horse with us. If this occurs, hospitalisation charges are made from the day the horse is admitted until it is discharged.
You are most welcome to stay and observe the examinations, but please be aware that the veterinary surgeon involved will often have other horses to examine during the course of the day. This may mean that some of the procedures that your horse might need will be arranged between other previously arranged appointments, which can lead to lengthy waiting times. Although most owners are very understanding, we feel it is prudent to give advance warning.
When your horse is discharged, you and your veterinary surgeon will be given instructions about how to manage and treat him/her as a result of the diagnostic findings and/or treatment that has been carried out. A detailed report will be sent by post to you and your veterinary surgeon, which you are welcome to discuss by telephone with our clinician who prepared it. If your horse is insured, you can then forward this report onto the insurance company, with your claim form, completed by your veterinary surgeon.