What is Horse Lameness?
Horse lameness, or equine lameness in horses is mild to severe loss of ability to move normally that can be caused by problems in bones, muscles, nerves, tendons, ligaments, the brain, circulation, and metabolism. That’s right. Almost anything can affect a horse so that it appears lame. The majority of lameness problems occur in the foot. Horse lameness can occur suddenly or gradually. Lameness can increase in severity or never change. Lameness can resolve on its own or can require veterinary intervention. Fortunately, there are many ways to decrease the likelihood that lameness will develop, including having annual visits with an equine veterinarian. Small animal veterinarians who attend meetings of the American Association of Equine Practitioners may also provide helpful advice.
