Orthopedic and spinal examination
Services provided by SMDC
Opening hours
- Mon - Fri : 8.00 AM - 5.30 PM
- Saturday : closed
- Sunday : closed
+ 31 (0)412 745500
At the Sporthorse Medical Diagnostic Centre (SMDC), a thorough and systematic orthopedic examination is central to identifying locomotion problems and spine-related issues in sport horses.
Our approach is based on the latest insights in functional anatomy, biomechanics, and pain physiology, and is carried out by veterinarians with ISELP training/certification and European specialists in Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation (ECVSMR). The entire horse is always considered during the evaluation.
Contents of an orthopedic examination
A standard orthopedic examination at SMDC takes approximately two hours and includes the following components:
- Anamnesis: detailed discussion of the complaint, the horse’s use, previous treatments, and expectations.
- Static examination: assessment of conformation, posture, muscle development, and any structural deviations.
- General palpation: assessment of joints, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and the spine for temperature, swelling, pain, or movement restriction.
- Dynamic examination:
- Figure-eight pattern on a hard surface
- Straight line at walk and trot, on both hard and soft surfaces
- Grote volte op harde bodem
- Circles at walk, trot, and canter on a soft surface
- Flexion tests and, if indicated, nerve blocks
- Motion evaluation: Assessment of joints based on:
- Quality of movement
- Range of motion
- Pain response
- End-feel of the tests
- Specific palpation: targeted palpation of abnormalities for pain, heat, and swelling
About dynamic examinations
During the dynamic examination, our EGAS (Equine Gait Analysis Society) certified veterinarians use advanced objective gait analysis to accurately detect subtle asymmetries and lameness. We employ three complementary systems for this purpose: Sleip, Lameness Locator, and Qualisys.
- Sleip uses video recordings of the horse in motion, which are analyzed with artificial intelligence (AI) to assess movement patterns.
- Lameness Locator uses sensors on the head, pelvis, and forelimb to measure vertical movements and objectively quantify motion.
- Qualisys is a high-end 3D motion capture system that uses reflective markers and multiple cameras for highly accurate three-dimensional movement analysis.
By combining these systems with clinical expertise, we obtain a reliable, objective, and reproducible assessment of the horse’s movement patterns. This not only aids in making an accurate diagnosis but also helps monitor recovery and evaluate the effectiveness of treatments.
About motion evaluation examinations
The motion evaluation of the spine and limbs is performed by veterinarians and physiotherapists who are FES (Focus on the Equine Spine) certified. The horse is tested segmentally and in detail to identify compensation patterns, neuromuscular imbalances, or underlying limitations that affect the horse’s overall function.
Imaging follows the clinical examination
Based on the clinical findings, additional imaging diagnostics may be performed (such as radiographs, ultrasound, UTC, scintigraphy, CT, or MRI). Results are available immediately after the examination (allow 24h for advanced imaging), and whenever possible, treatment can be initiated right away.
Feedback
After the examination, the owner receives a comprehensive report including diagnosis, treatment recommendations, and a rehabilitation plan, both in print and by email. When applicable, feedback is provided to the referring veterinarian. For treatment advice and rehabilitation planning, consultation is held with the farriers (DEPC), our internal medicine specialist, dentists, and physiotherapists (DD-Physio) to ensure a multidisciplinary approach.
At SMDC, we believe that an accurate diagnosis and a multidisciplinary approach lead to lasting solutions for orthopedic and spine-related issues in sport horses.
Is your horse experiencing orthopedic problems?
Together with top specialists in their respective fields, we ensure an accurate diagnosis and a targeted treatment plan.
Please contact us if you would like your horse to be examined for mobility issues.