Very Common
Less Common
Related Observations
Your vet might choose this diagnostic test if you were making these observations.
Diagnostic
Tests or procedures used by your vet to determine what is wrong with your horse, in order to reach a diagnosis.
Cost: $100 to $500
These cost ranges are approximate and may vary from region to region.
Additional charges may also apply.
YOUR VET MAY PERFORM
Radiography, X-ray, Shoulder
Cost: $100 to $500
These cost ranges are approximate and may vary from region to region.
Additional charges may also apply.
Summary
This diagnostic is less commonly used because shoulder lameness is uncommon. When lameness is suspected to originate in the shoulder area, it is usually because the examiner has ruled out many other potential areas via the use of nerve blocks. In addition, this diagnostic requires a powerful x-ray generators and excellent technique in order to acquire images of diagnostic quality.
The front limb is usually pulled forward and the x-ray is taken from the other side of the horse. This is done so that the limb is pulled away from the massive muscling of the other limb.
The front limb is usually pulled forward and the x-ray is taken from the other side of the horse. This is done so that the limb is pulled away from the massive muscling of the other limb.
Why A Vet Chooses This Diagnostic
Related Diagnostics
Other diagnostic tests that might be used in combination or with this one or instead of this one.
Diagnoses Your Vet May Consider
This test could rule out or confirm any of the following diagnoses.
BENEFITS
Quality shoulder radiographs are useful in diagnosing fractures and osteochondrosis of the bones of the shoulder joint. LIMITATIONS
This area is difficult to image well, meaning that many radiographs lack sufficient detail to be helpful in diagnosing the problem.
your role
Questions To Ask Your Vet:
- Will information gathered by this test change the prognosis or possible treatments available for my horse?
further reading & resources
Helpful Terms and Topics
Written, reviewed or shared by experts in equine health