How do we diagnose Arthritis?

Arthritis can be quickly and easily diagnosed by our experienced team of Veterinarians. We perform a range of physical examinations to assess whether your loved horse or pony may be suffering from arthritis. We’ll ask you lots of questions too so we can get a good picture of your horse’s overall health and any recent changes in mood, stiffness during work or reluctance to perform certain exercises.

Often the irregularity in the gait can show up more on one rein than the other. Our vets will perform a hands-on examination to assess limb flexion, heat or swelling of the joints as well as a visual assessment of your horse, or ‘trot-up”. We may perform flexion tests, and if significant lameness is noted, we may take xrays of the affected joint(s) 

But don’t worry, arthritis can be very easily treated when caught early. Our vets have a range of treatment options to suit every horse. This means your horse can continue his athletic career well into his later years.