Our lameness investigation and treatment includes:

• Clinical examination areas
• Trotting up
• Lunging pen
• Radiography
• Ultrasonography
• Gamma scintigraphy
• CT

Lameness investigation forms a major part of the work of Rainbow Equine Clinic for both first opinion, second opinion, and referral clients. Although initial assessments and simple lameness can often be diagnosed and treated at the stable or yard, more complicated lameness cases are best brought to Rainbow Equine Clinic. We have excellent facilities for trotting horses up and both hard and soft surfaces for working horses on a circle. We are able to observe horses under saddle in one of the larger paddocks which allows us to perform a complete clinical assessment prior to further diagnostic tests.

Following a full history and clinical examination, these tests may include nerve blocks, radiography and/or ultrasonography. Some complex lameness cases may require the use of scintigraphy or bone scanning, and many horses are referred specifically for this service. While radiography and ultrasonography can provide good anatomical detail scintigraphy works by measuring the metabolic activity within the bone and it is therefore a much more sensitive technique which can help us to pinpoint problems long before they become visible on x-ray. This is particularly useful in competition horses that may have suffered a stress fracture.  scintigraphy is also useful in investigation of multi-limb lameness and particularly back and pelvic problems.

Once a diagnosis has been reached, a horse can receive the appropriate treatment. In the case of stress fractures, this is simply may be box rest for 6 – 8 weeks before re-assessment. Other lameness problems may require medication, either orally or into the joint, or the use of shockwave therapy to encourage healing. Results of the lameness investigation may indicate that surgery, such as arthroscopy is required for the removal of damaged tissues from joints.

For further details about our facilities and services please contact us.