## Overview Forelimb compensation refers to secondary muscle soreness and asymmetry around the withers that develops when a horse alters posture or gait to protect a primary forelimb lameness. The signs often resolve once the original lameness is treated. ## Causes Weight redistribution and altered muscle use secondary to foot, tendon, or joint pain in the forelimb. ## Diagnosis Identification of a primary lameness plus unilateral withers or shoulder-girdle soreness that improves after the primary problem is addressed. ## Treatment Treat the primary lameness. Supportive physiotherapy and anti-inflammatories for the secondary muscle pain. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good once the inciting lameness is resolved. ## Prevention Early treatment of forelimb lameness.
unilateral muscle soreness near the withers; asymmetric wither development; sensitivity that resolves when primary lameness is treated
## Overview Forelimb compensation refers to secondary muscle soreness and asymmetry around the withers that develops when a horse alters posture or gait to protect a primary forelimb lameness. The signs often resolve once the original lameness is treated. ## Causes Weight redistribution and altered muscle use secondary to foot, tendon, or joint pain in the forelimb. ## Diagnosis Identification of a primary lameness plus unilateral withers or shoulder-girdle soreness that improves after the primary problem is addressed. ## Treatment Treat the primary lameness. Supportive physiotherapy and anti-inflammatories for the secondary muscle pain. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good once the inciting lameness is resolved. ## Prevention Early treatment of forelimb lameness.
unilateral muscle soreness near the withers; asymmetric wither development; sensitivity that resolves when primary lameness is treated