Lameness & Performance Care

Keeping Performance Horses at Their Best

Lameness is one of the most common challenges in equine medicine, and accurate diagnosis is essential for successful treatment. Homestead Veterinary Hospital provides comprehensive lameness and performance evaluations for horses. Our veterinarians combine advanced diagnostic tools with decades of hands-on experience to help every horse—from pleasure mounts to high-level competitors—perform comfortably and predictably.

 

Complete Lameness Evaluations

Our evaluations begin with a detailed history and a full physical exam. We observe your horse moving under various conditions, both in hand and on a circle, to assess gait irregularities and pinpoint areas of concern. Flexion tests and palpation help identify discomfort, stiffness, or early signs of injury before they progress into long-term soundness issues.

 

Diagnostic Nerve and Joint Blocks

Nerve and joint blocks are a critical part of localizing lameness. By selectively numbing specific regions, we can determine where pain originates and develop targeted treatment plans.

These techniques help identify problems involving:

• Hooves and distal limbs
• Suspensory ligaments
• Tendons and soft tissues
• Stifles, hocks, and upper limb joints

 

Advanced Diagnostics for Performance Horses

Digital radiography, ultrasound, and endoscopy are available on-farm to support rapid diagnosis. These tools allow us to evaluate soft tissue, bone, joints, and airway function—all essential for maintaining performance levels in working or athletic horses. When needed, our imaging services are paired with regenerative therapies to create a complete treatment plan.

 

Laminitis and Founder Care

Laminitis has been a focus of our practice for more than 20 years. We take a whole-horse approach to diagnosing and treating laminitis and founder, addressing the underlying causes as well as the immediate foot pain. Early intervention and ongoing management are essential for the best possible outcome.

 

Custom Treatment & Rehabilitation Plans

Once a diagnosis is established, we create a personalized treatment plan that may include corrective shoeing, joint therapies, anti-inflammatory medications, regenerative medicine, structured exercise plans, or rest protocols. Our goal is to restore comfort, maintain long-term soundness, and help your horse return to their desired level of work.

 

Focused Care for Long-Term Performance

Whether your horse is showing subtle changes in movement or experiencing significant pain, early evaluation is key. Our experienced team is committed to helping your horse stay sound, comfortable, and ready to perform—whether in everyday riding or high-level competition.