Performance Exams can help to diagnose and treat a number of underlying issues that may be causing performance problems. The exam consists a movement evaluation, joint flexion and an acupuncture sensitivity test. These are all designed to identify problem areas. The treatments included with a performance exam are chiropractic and acupuncture. Radiographs, ultrasound and joint injections may also be performed if deemed necessary.
Movement Evaluation - Your horse's movement is evaluated at a walk, trot and canter in a roundpen to identify stiffness and discomfort resulting in gait abnormalities. They are then walked up and down a hill to evaluate their stifles. After that they are walked and trotted up and down pavement to evaluate movement on a hard surface. Joint flexions are performed next.
Joint Flexion- Ankle, knee and hock joints are flexed, held and then released while the horse is immediately trotted off. Sore joints will become evident as the horse moves off stiffly displaying an abnormal gait from the resulting pain.
Acupoint Sensitivity Test- Acupressure points are checked for sensitivity and soreness to determine energy imbalances in the body resulting from underlying conditions such as spinal misalignments, joint soreness, illness, muscle strains, etc. Overly sensitive acupressure points may be treated with acupuncture to stimulate the point allowing the flow of energy to help the body heal itself.
