Understanding Hind-Limb Lameness in Horses

Understanding Hind-Limb Lameness in Horses

Author: The Horse: Your Guide to Equine Health Care July 11, 2025 Duration: 58:37

Hind-limb lameness in horses can be challenging for owners to spot and veterinarians to diagnose. It can affect horses of all ages and disciplines. Subtle signs, such as a shortened stride, reluctance to go forward, or toe-dragging might go unnoticed until the horse’s performance declines or a more obvious issue appears. Catching hind-limb lameness early can improve your horse’s well-being and long-term soundness. Two experts answer listener questions about recognizing, diagnosing, and managing hind-limb lameness in horses in this archived Ask TheHorse Live podcast.

This podcast is brought to you by American Regent Animal Health.

About the Experts:

Tena Ursini, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVSMR, CERP, is an assistant professor in Equine Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation at the University of Tennessee, in Knoxville. Her main clinical and research interests are biomechanics and validating rehabilitation treatments, especially related to the back and topline.

Howland M. Mansfield, DVM, CVA, CVMMP, of Summerville, South Carolina, received her DVM from Tuskegee University School of Veterinary Medicine, in Alabama, and completed internships in both general equine medicine and surgery and in advanced equine reproduction. She is certified in both veterinary acupuncture and veterinary medical manipulation. She has practiced along the East Coast over the course of 14 years, in addition to time in Germany providing veterinary care for some of the most elite show horses in Europe. In 2012 Mansfield was named by the South Carolina Horseman’s Council as the Horse Person of the Year for her efforts in equine rescue and in combating animal cruelty. She joined American Regent in 2023 as a technical services veterinarian where she can support the welfare of and improve health care for horses and small animals throughout the U.S.


Ever find yourself puzzling over a subtle change in your horse's behavior or wishing you had a clearer understanding of that latest veterinary study? Ask The Horse brings those conversations directly to you, transforming complex equine health topics into accessible, actionable knowledge. Each episode features recorded live sessions where seasoned horse owners pose their real-world questions to a rotating panel of top veterinarians and specialists. You'll hear discussions that range from everyday hoof care and nutrition management to explanations of emerging therapies and diagnostic techniques. The format captures the spontaneous, insightful dialogue that happens when curious minds meet expert experience, all without the filter of a script. This podcast, presented by The Horse: Your Guide to Equine Health Care, serves as a trusted resource for anyone invested in the wellbeing of their horse, whether you're a weekend trail rider or a competitive professional. It’s like having a front-row seat to a continuous learning community, where the shared goal is simply better care. Tune in to gain a deeper confidence in your decisions and to hear the nuanced, practical advice that can make a tangible difference in your daily routine with horses.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Ask The Horse
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