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Observation
What you see. The starting point for addressing any equine health related issue is your observation.

YOU ARE OBSERVING

Short-Strided in One or Both Hind Limbs

Summary

A short front phase of the stride of a hind limb is seen commonly in horses with a variety of hind limb lameness conditions. It may be noticeable at the walk and the trot. This pattern may result from problems affecting the upper or lower limb, and can often be seen in horses with neurologic problems.

Generally, conditions causing hind limb lameness are difficult to identify. For this reason, do not guess or assume where the problem arises based on this observation alone. Horses that are "short" behind should be evaluated by a vet because they might have serious, performance-limiting conditions.

  • Code Orange

    Call Your Vet at Their First Available Office Hours
    • If you feel the problem is severe or has come on suddenly.

  • Code Yellow

    Contact Your Vet at Your Convenience for an Appointment
You also might be observing
Very Common
Less Common
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your role

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What To Do



Have someone walk your horse straight away while you stand to the side. Assess your horse at the walk and the trot, paying particular attention to how differently the two hind limbs track up. You can also evaluate this by examining the symmetry of the horse's hoof prints in soil.

Assess the affected hind limb looking for swelling, heat or digital pulse, then rest the horse in a small enclosure until assessed by your vet. Share your findings and concerns with your vet.

What Not To Do

Conditions causing hind limb lameness are difficult to identify. For this reason, do not guess or assume where the problem arises based on this observation alone.

your vet's role

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Your vet approaches this observation as a lameness until proven otherwise. Evaluation usually starts with a physical exam and a lameness exam before proceeding with other tests.
Questions Your Vet Might Ask:
  • When did you first notice this?
  • When did you last think your horse seemed normal?
  • Do you notice any swelling or abnormality in the limb?
  • Do you notice lameness?
  • What level of work is the horse being asked to perform?
  • Have you recently changed how you manage or work the horse?
  • When was the horse last worked?
  • Do you notice a digital pulse or heat in the foot?
  • Have you compared the digital pulse of this foot to the others?
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Diagnoses Your Vet May Consider

The cause of the problem. These are conditions or ailments that are the cause of the observations you make.

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Less Common
Rare
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Treatments Your Vet May Recommend

A way to resolve the condition or diagnosis. Resolving the underlying cause or treating the signs of disease (symptomatic treatment)

Very Common
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further reading & resources

Author: Doug Thal DVM Dipl. ABVP