Services Directory 2010
LAMENESS – EXAMINATIONS & TREATMENT
Our team has had vast experience in the examination and assessment of lameness in horses. Using nerve blocks and flexion tests we are to identify the area of concern. Once identified further diagnosis is achieved by state of the art digital radiography or ultrasound. On occasions we recommend that horses are referred for nuclear scintigraphy or MRI’s. Accurate diagnosis is vital in seeking a successful outcome for your horse.
Once a diagnosis is made we use the most current and effective therapies in the management of lamenesses. In many cases the lameness needs more than just “Bute”, and requires a whole horse approach.
For example in the management of degenerative joint disease (arthritis) we may advise the use of one or several of the following –

1. Tildren – a biophosphonate that affects bone modelling cells. We have used it to successfully treat Navicular Syndrome, Hock and Pastern DJD and prophylatically in some top level performance horses.
2. IRAP – Interleukin Receptor Antagonist  Protein – autologous conditioned serum, injected directly into joints with synovitis, capsulitis or early DJD
3. Regenesis – We are one of only a handful of practices in the country to be able to offer this treatment. The product is a cell free cytokine therapy made from adipose derived stem cells from donor horses, it is injected directly into joints, tendons and ligaments. This therapy is drug free and the trial work in humans and dogs has been outstanding. Early results in the horse are also very exciting for this new treatment.
4. Corticosteroids – injected directly into diseased joints. Not as “new” as others mentioned but still a very effective and economical method of treatment of lameness.
5. Pentosan polysulphates, hyaluronic acid, oral joint foods, omega 3 oil – simple to use, and can be used alone or in conjunction with other therapies, these are very good maintenance therapy for osteoarthritis and as they are given systemically they help all joints.
6. Corrective Shoeing – “No foot, No horse” – there is not a truer saying, and in managing any lameness we always discuss how changes to shoeing or trimming may help.

If your horse shows signs of lameness, please arrange a consultation with one of our veterinarians to  avoid further injury or poor performance.