Horse Joint and Skeletal Problems

Our Thermal Imaging cameras can detect the smallest of temperature changes.

Very distinctive thermal patterns are present where joint injury or degeneration is present, or has been present in the horse. In chronic pain syndromes or chronic degenerative processes such as arthritis, there is initially an increase in blood flow which presents as an increase in joint temperature. Over time the horse will stop using the joint and the inflammation will decrease, but the pain remains, therefore an increase in sympathetic tone and vasoconstriction occurs and the joint appears cooler than previously.  The Thermal Imaging cameras used by us are extremely sensitive and can detect the subtle temperature changes associated with joint problems - one of the biggest causes of lameness in a horse.

Further tests may be necessary, but an early diagnosis of arthritis made by your vet will enable drug therapies to start earlier, usually with a better prognosis, and will keep your horse more comfortable.

Inflammation of the left hock.	Inflammation of the left stifle.

Inflammation in a joint may also be a result of infection, sprains and strains and trauma, and is denoted by a circle of warmer temperature readings encircling the affected joint.

Thermal Imaging will also highlight skeletal issues such as the early development of splints, stress fractures and bone cysts, enabling prompt treatment.

Active splint showing just below knee.	Stress fracture of the hind leg.

Thermal Imaging is a valuable tool for vets montoring casts on horses, and the development of granulating wounds or cast sores underneath. Once identified the cast can be refitted, or loosened over the area, relieving pressure and discomfort.

All of these subtle changes can be detected and monitored using equine thermal imaging. Courses of treatment for chronic conditions can also be objectively evaluated with equine thermography, and adjusted as appropriate.