Strategies to identify specific problems of a horse with indistinct or unusual gait deficits, particularly if it’s unclear whether they’re related to the musculoskeletal system, neurologic deficits, or behavior, were discussed at the 2009 Association of Equine Practitioner’s convention, held Dec. 5-9 in Las Vegas, Nev. Bradford Bentz, VMD, discussed a systematic diagnostic approach that relies on an algorithm involving information on the horse’s history, breed, age, gender, and athletic use, along with rider input about changes in behavior and performance.

The equine practitioner then begins a thorough physical examination that includes palpation of the skeleton and musculature, assessment of flexibility and range-of-motion, palpation and manipulation of the neck, spine, and pelvis, as well as exam of airway and heart function.