- Megan Fleming
Lameness: When Should You Call the Vet vs. An Equine Physio?
This is a common question, especially now with there are so many alternative therapies to turn to: physio, massage, chiropractic, acupuncture... all of whom have a difference lens to view a situation.
It is impossible to make an exhaustive list of specific situations for ‘when to call the veterinarian.' As we all know horses tend to find themselves in a number of 'interesting' situations. However, there are certainly some guidelines to help better make a decision.

As a basic rule, owners should be guided by degree of lameness and/or wounds then over minor swelling. For example, if the horse is non weight bearing on a particular limb, this is considered urgent and an assessment by a veterinarian is warranted. However, a minor swelling with no lameness is unlikely to require immediate veterinary attention. It is very important to monitor mild concerns. If changes occur, such as a developing lameness, an assessment by a veterinarian is warranted.

Any significant wound in association with lameness requires an assessment by a veterinarian, as some wounds can cause concerning damage to deeper structures in the limbs.
An equine physio is immensely important on the road to recovery once a diagnosis has been determined. They are the fundamental part in coming up with a rehabilitation
program and overall maintenance program to get our equine friends back to healthy status of movement and comfort.
When to call the vet and NOT the equine physio:
1-Persistent bleeding
2-you feel there may be an underlying condition - cancer, virus,
3-puncture wound with or without debris
4-too much pain where the horse is unsafe to be handled
5-significant pain where the horse is not drinking
6-significant pain where the horse is not eating
7-fracture/broken bone
8-you feel there is an infection
9-non weight bearing on a leg
10-horse is unable to get up
11- high fever
12- coliking
13-falling over, unable to balance
14-difficulty breathing
15-open wound