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Lameness

Lameness is an abnormal gait or inability to bear weight on a limb, arising from pain, injury, or neurologic dysfunction. The term is widely used in veterinary medicine to describe impaired movement in animals and, in humans, to describe a limp.

Causes vary by species but share categories: orthopedic injuries (fractures, arthritis, ligament or tendon tears), soft-tissue

Assessment includes history, observation of gait and weight-bearing, and targeted examination with palpation and range of

Treatment depends on the cause and may involve rest, analgesia and anti-inflammatories, physical therapy, weight management,

Prognosis ranges from guarded to excellent and is influenced by the underlying condition and promptness of

injuries
(muscle
strains),
hoof
or
foot
disorders
in
animals,
and
neurological
or
spinal
diseases.
Systemic
conditions
such
as
infections
or
metabolic
problems
can
contribute
to
lameness.
motion
testing.
Diagnostic
tools
may
include
radiographs,
ultrasound,
CT
or
MRI,
and
laboratory
tests.
Nerve
blocks
or
diagnostic
injections
help
localize
painful
structures.
orthotics
or
corrective
trimming/shoeing,
and,
when
appropriate,
surgical
intervention.
Addressing
underlying
disease
is
essential
for
recovery.
care.
Prevention
emphasizes
conditioning,
injury
prevention,
regular
assessment
of
locomotion,
and
proper
care
of
joints,
hooves,
and
soft
tissues.