How Lame Is Your Horse?
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
There are many different methods of defining and grading lameness. Here are the AAEP’s defined classifications.
Definition: Lameness is a deviation from the normal gait or posture due to pain or mechanical dysfunction.
Classification:
Grade 1: Difficult to observe; not consistently apparent regardless of circumstances (i.e., weight carrying, circling, inclines, hard surfaces, etc.)
Grade 2: Difficult to observe at a walk or trotting a straight line; consistently apparent under certain circumstances (i.e., weight carrying, circling, inclines, hard surfaces, etc.)
Grade 3: Consistently observable at a trot under all circumstances.
Grade 4: Obvious lameness; marked nodding, hitching or shortened stride.
Grade 5: Minimal weight bearing in motion and/or at rest; inability to move.
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