Lameness remains one of the most common and complex challenges in equine practice, often requiring a collaborative approach between farriers and veterinarians. As understanding of joint health continues to evolve, so do the tools used to diagnose, manage and treat these conditions. 

Recognizing the underlying causes of lameness and understanding emerging regenerative options help farriers play a critical role in supporting long-term soundness.

Understanding Lameness

Lameness is the leading reason veterinarians are called — even more often than colic. While a farrier’s focus is the hoof, many issues that affect the hoof originate higher up the limb. Understanding contributing factors, such as workload, conformation and footing, help improve diagnosis and direct treatment.

“Any change in the horse’s gait that’s caused by pain is considered lameness, and that can present in a lot of different ways. It’s not always obvious right away. In many cases, we’re seeing the result of something that has been developing over time. That’s part of why lameness is the number one reason veterinarians are called…