Lameness is a common complaint in small animal medicine. Orthopedic examination is performed by visual and manual assessment of the patient. In most cases, the affected extremity is identified, but the exact origin of that extremity remains obscure and sometimes difficu
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Lameness is a common complaint in small animal medicine. Orthopedic examination is performed by visual and manual assessment of the patient. In most cases, the affected extremity is identified, but the exact origin of that extremity remains obscure and sometimes difficult. Orthopedic examination plays an important role in determining the location of lameness, diagnosing its cause, and finding appropriate treatment. Early diagnosis of musculoskeletal problems is very important to apply appropriate treatment and preventive measures in the early stages of disease progression. Patients presenting with symptoms of musculoskeletal abnormalities should undergo a complete orthopedic examination. A systematic approach to orthopedic examination is important to assess all structures and ensure that no part is missed. The purpose of orthopedic examination is to assess the presence or absence of the disease in the patient and determine the causes of its occurrence. The orthopedic examination includes history taking, walking observation, step analysis and evaluation, and clinical examination of the patient. A history of lameness, previous diagnoses and treatments and their effects, the presence of other systemic diseases, and diet should be documented before the initiation of clinical examination. The time of onset of lameness, possible causes, and the timing of progression also help in a better diagnosis. It is very important to observe the patient walking from different directions at different speeds. Observing the patient going up and down stairs and ramps may also help. Understanding movement and gait is important for diagnosing many musculoskeletal and neurological problems. Gait analysis should be performed before any orthopedic or neurological examination. Gait analysis can help further clarify which limb is affected. Finally, an orthopedic clinical examination of the animal is performed. This article describes methods for clinical examination of the hind limb.
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