Stifle radiographs are a standard diagnostic used in hind limb lameness exams where a problem is suspected to originate from this area, resulting from trauma, infection, or genetic defects. The function and anatomy of the stifle is complex. It contains the femoral tibal joint (medial and lateral) and the femoral patella, the latter of which can sometimes become "locked."

The stifle is the highest (most proximal) part of the equine limb that can be x-rayed in a standing horse with conventional radiographic equipment. Even then, this anatomy requires powerful x-ray generators to penetrate the massive musculature at this level. Typically, in this series two to four radiographs are taken from different angles around the limb.