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, Foot
Cost: $100 to $500
These cost ranges are approximate and may vary from region to region.
Additional charges may also apply.
Summary
Radiographs of the equine foot or feet are a standard diagnostic used for hoof or foot related problems and in lameness exams, because a high percentage of lameness originates in this area.
Foot radiographs are usually taken after nerve or joint blocks are performed. The soles and frogs are lightly trimmed and cleaned up with a hoof knife, and any defects are packed with putty to prevent an artifact (visual misrepresentations). Typically, in this series five radiographs of each foot are taken from different angles, and more if needed.
Foot radiographs are usually taken after nerve or joint blocks are performed. The soles and frogs are lightly trimmed and cleaned up with a hoof knife, and any defects are packed with putty to prevent an artifact (visual misrepresentations). Typically, in this series five radiographs of each foot are taken from different angles, and more if needed.
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
High quality radiographs of the feet provide important information about the bones in the lower limb, the position of the coffin bone within the hoof and some helpful information regarding soft tissue structures. Even if there are no obvious issues in this area at the time, radiographs may provide a useful baseline for future comparison. LIMITATIONS
This diagnostic only has very limited ability to show the intricate and vital soft tissue structures of the foot and support structures of the joints. Poor preparation of the sole or frog may introduce artifact (visual misrepresentations due to a variety of conditions and errors), which decreases the quality of the radiographs and their diagnostic value.
further reading & resources
Helpful Terms and Topics
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