Flexion testing is an important diagnostic tool used to identify lameness in horses. It involves the manipulation of a joint in the horse’s leg to assess the range of motion and identify any areas of discomfort or pain. Flexion testing can be performed on any joint in the horse’s leg, but it is most commonly used on the lower limb joints, including the fetlock, knee, and hock.
The goal of flexion testing is to identify any areas of discomfort or pain in the horse’s leg that may be indicative of an underlying lameness issue. To perform flexion testing, the horse is first walked and trotted to establish a baseline gait. Then, the veterinarian or equine professional will apply pressure to the joint for a specific amount of time, usually around 60 seconds, and then immediately ask the horse to trot off. The horse’s gait is then observed to see if there is any change or lameness present.
During the flexion test, the horse’s joint is flexed and held in a specific position, which puts pressure on the joint and the surrounding soft tissue. If there is an underlying issue, the horse may show signs of discomfort or pain when the pressure is applied. The most common signs of discomfort or pain during flexion testing include shortening of the stride, head-bobbing, and uneven weight-bearing.
It’s important to note that while flexion testing is a valuable diagnostic tool, it is not always conclusive on its own. It should be used in conjunction with other diagnostic tools, such as radiographs, ultrasounds, and nerve blocks, to get a full picture of the horse’s condition.
Additionally, it’s important to have a trained and experienced equine professional perform the flexion test to ensure that it is done correctly and safely. Improperly performed flexion tests can potentially cause further injury to the horse.
In conclusion, flexion testing is an important diagnostic tool in identifying lameness in horses. It involves manipulating a joint in the horse’s leg to assess the range of motion and identify any areas of discomfort or pain. While it is not always conclusive on its own, when used in conjunction with other diagnostic tools, it can help determine the best course of treatment for the horse’s condition.