How to Test for Arthritis in Horses

Horses, like humans, are prone to arthritis. This is especially true of horses used in strenuous equestrian sports such as racing, dressage, eventing, jumping and reining. Arthritis can occur in both young and old horses, and is not restricted to any one sport or breed. While arthritis is a relatively common affliction among sport horses, it requires a licensed veterinarian to diagnose and treat it.

Things You'll Need

  • DVM degree or a licensed veterinarian
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Instructions

  1. Before You Call the Vet

    • 1

      Watch the horse moving at a trot on a hard surface, such as pavement. Note any stiffness or lameness.

    • 2

      Run your hands over the suspected joint or joints. Note any heat or swelling.

    • 3

      Consider whether or not arthritis is still indicated. If there is heat or swelling somewhere other than in a joint, or if the horse appears footsore, there are several other possible causes. Consult with your veterinarian about these possibilities before moving on to the flexion test.

    Flexion Test

    • 4

      Call your veterinarian and schedule an exam if your observations suggest arthritis.

    • 5

      Watch your veterinarian perform a flexion test. This will entail the vet's holding the suspected joints in a flexed position for several minutes and then having you move the horse away from him at a trot to see if any lameness has been made worse by the test.

    • 6

      Discuss the findings of the flexion test with your veterinarian. In most cases, your veterinarian will need to take x-rays of the suspected joints to confirm his diagnosis.

    • 7

      Discuss treatment options with your veterinarian, who will point out bony changes in your horse's joints that indicate arthritis. There are many ways to go about treating arthritis in horses, so it is important to get veterinary input.