Skilled & Caring Lameness Evaluation and Treatment for Your Horse
We can all appreciate the majestic strength and athleticism of our horses. However, sometimes a horse loses the ability to move gracefully in the ring or on the trail. Lameness can occur at any time and may be caused by pain, a physical problem, or a neurological condition.
The skilled equine veterinarians at Columbia Equine Hospital evaluate each horse systematically and thoroughly in order to make an accurate diagnosis of the source of the lameness and establish the most optimal treatment plan. Our veterinarians perform a physical exam with gait analysis, flexion tests, nerve and joint blocks as needed, and advanced diagnostic imaging.
Our facility has state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to help us diagnose the source of your horse’s problem. We offer the latest in diagnostic imaging with MTurbo digital ultrasound and digital radiography available at the hospital and in the field. Our most advanced lameness evaluation imaging system is the MIE digital scintigraphy diagnostic system. Diagnostic surgical arthroscopy is also available for intra-articular evaluations.
We use cutting-edge technology to assist us in our treatment of your horse, including:
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESW)— This non-invasive therapy is used to treat a variety of conditions. Treatments are quick, and our unit is portable. Shock waves are high amplitude pulses of energy, similar to sound waves, transmitted through the skin to the treatment area. Shock waves have been shown to stimulate healing mechanisms within the body, including angiogenesis (new blood vessel development) and neurogenesis (new nerve cell development).
- Pro-Stride APS— A proprietary system that concentrates an autologous protein solution of cells, platelets, growth factors, and anti-inflammatory proteins (including IL-1ra) from your horse’s own blood. The solution is then injected into an arthritic joint to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Pro-Stride can be processed in about 20 minutes, does not require incubation, and is natural and drug-free.
- Restigen Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)— Platelets found in your horse’s blood can be collected and concentrated. When platelets are activated, growth factors are released and aid the natural healing, repair and regeneration of tissues including tendons, ligaments, muscles and bones.
- Stem cell therapy— Equine stem cells are multipotent, allowing them to differentiate into specialized cells and regenerate tissues such as cartilage, bone, tendon and ligament. When injected into the site of an injury, these cells can reduce scar tissue formation, exhibit anti-inflammatory effects, and activate the body’s own stem cells, thereby stimulating tissue regeneration.