Performance horses ask a lot of their bodies, and whether you're noticing an off day or managing an old injury, soundness is key. At Black Brook Veterinary Services, we offer sports medicine and lameness services to help your horse move comfortably and perform at their full potential. From subtle gait changes to complex, chronic issues, our experienced team takes a proactive, hands-on approach to evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment.
Concerned about lameness or performance changes? Click below to schedule an evaluation.
Common Sports Injuries in Horses
Equine athletes are prone to a variety of musculoskeletal injuries, both acute and chronic. Prompt attention and a correct diagnosis can make a meaningful difference in long-term performance and recovery.
Common conditions we see include:
- Tendon and ligament injuries
- Joint inflammation and osteoarthritis
- Sore backs or sacroiliac dysfunction
- Hoof and navicular pain
- Subtle asymmetries or short strides
- Chronic compensatory lameness due to old injuries or poor conformation
Lameness Exams & Diagnostic Imaging
A thorough lameness exam is the cornerstone of soundness care. Our exams begin with a full history and hands-on evaluation, followed by dynamic movement assessment on straight lines, circles, hard and soft footing, and under saddle when appropriate.
We may incorporate:
Sports Medicine Treatments We Offer
We combine time-tested techniques with modern regenerative therapies to support recovery and optimize performance.
Available therapies include:
-
ProStride® and PRP Injections: Regenerative joint and tendon injections using the horse’s own blood to promote healing and reduce inflammation, these therapies are ideal for managing arthritis and soft tissue injuries.
-
Shockwave Therapy: Noninvasive, high-energy sound waves are used to stimulate healing in tendons, ligaments, joints, and sore backs. Shockwave therapy is commonly used in chronic or high-motion injuries.
-
Spinal Manipulation (Chiropractic Care): We currently have two veterinarians who are certified in equine spinal manipulation therapy (chiropractic). These sessions can relieve tension, improve range of motion, and support recovery from back pain or compensation patterns.
-
Therapeutic Laser: Cold laser therapy helps reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and speed tissue repair. Often used post-injury or post-injection to enhance healing.
Keep Your Horse
at the Top of Their Game
Whether you're managing a new injury, an ongoing lameness, or simply want to fine-tune performance, our team is here to help. With advanced diagnostics, targeted therapies, and a deep understanding of equine athletes, we’ll partner with you to keep your horse sound, comfortable, and ready for what’s next.
Let’s get your horse moving their best. Click below to schedule a sports medicine consult today.