Horses are beautiful, majestic animals. Some are kept as pets, while others train to run the racetrack, but horses in both categories face the risk of injury. If a beloved family member fell and broke their leg, we would not hesitate to rush them to the hospital. Horses should be treated with the same degree of respect and care. Horse vets and horse clinics exist specifically to care for injured horses, or in veterinary terms, those horses exhibiting "lameness." Horse vets have the expertise and equipment to correctly diagnose and treat the horses that need their services.

Lameness evaluations are the first course of action. These can range from basic to very comprehensive examinations. Besides the physical examination, usually one or more additional diagnostic techniques need to be utilized.

Diagnostic nerve and joint blocks consists of the injection of a local anesthetic agent directly into the suspect joint, or a series of injections placed sequentially up the injured limb, thereby removing the painful sensation from the site of injury. This has a calming effect on the horse and allows the veterinarian to investigate further.

Digital ultrasonography is very useful in the assessment of soft tissue injuries - primarily ligaments and tendons of the lower limb. As with digital radiography, the advancement of digital ultrasound machines has made it possible to image more areas of the musculoskeletal system with portable compact high-definition equipment.

Thermal imaging is another useful technique, especially in evaluating subtle lameness and neck/back pain. It involves the use of a handheld imaging camera that detects differences in temperature. When the camera is used, the horse is initially examined at rest and then again after exercise, and a comparison of the temperatures is then made.

Following an official diagnosis, courses of treatment will be recommended. This treatment can also be completed on site at special horse clinics. It is important to follow through with prescribed treatment in order for the horse to fully recover. Animals must depend on their owners to provide the best care possible, so do them the honor of providing prompt, professional care in a time of injury.