Spring has arrived, and for many horse owners, that means one thing—getting back out competing, training, and enjoying our horses again. Saddles have been checked, physios booked, and fitness plans are underway.
But what happens when your horse isn’t performing as expected?
Poor performance in horses is a common issue at this time of year. Even with the best preparation, you may notice your horse isn’t moving quite right, lacking impulsion, or struggling to work at their usual level.
If your horse doesn’t feel quite right, it’s important not to ignore the early signs.
Signs of Poor Performance in Horses
Not all horses show obvious lameness. In fact, many cases present as subtle performance issues.
Common signs include:
- Reduced performance or unwillingness to work
- Lack of impulsion or energy
- Stiffness or uneven movement
- Difficulty with transitions
- Behaviour changes under saddle
- Consistent comments from judges about movement
If your horse feels “off” or not quite themselves, this may indicate an underlying issue.
Common Causes of Poor Performance
There are several reasons why a horse may not perform as expected:
Age-Related Changes
Older horses may develop joint stiffness or arthritis, affecting movement and comfort.
Workload and Fitness
Changes in training intensity can lead to muscle soreness or strain.
Hoof Balance and Farriery
Poor hoof balance is one of the leading causes of lameness and poor performance in horses.
Saddle Fit and Back Pain
Even recently fitted saddles can cause discomfort as your horse’s shape changes.
Previous Injury
Old injuries can reappear when horses return to work.
When to Call Your Equine Vet
If your horse continues to show signs of poor performance despite adjustments to training, farriery, or tack, it’s time to speak to your vet.
Early intervention is key to preventing minor issues from becoming more serious problems.
At Little Rock Equine Vets Ltd, we regularly investigate cases of poor performance using a structured and thorough approach.
What is a Lameness or Performance Work-Up?
A lameness work-up (also known as a performance work-up) is designed to identify the underlying cause of reduced performance—even when lameness is subtle or inconsistent.
🔍 Step-by-Step Assessment
1. Stable Examination
We assess how your horse stands at rest and check for any signs of discomfort, asymmetry, or weight shifting.
2. Palpation and Physical Examination
We examine muscles, joints, and soft tissues to identify pain, tension, or abnormalities.
3. Movement Assessment
Your horse will be evaluated:
- On a hard surface to detect subtle lameness
- On a soft surface to assess overall movement and gait
4. Ridden Assessment
Where appropriate, we observe your horse under saddle to assess performance in real working conditions.
5. Diagnostic Nerve and Joint Blocks
These help us accurately localise the source of pain.
6. Imaging (X-rays and Ultrasound)
Used to confirm diagnoses and assess bones, joints, and soft tissues in detail.
Why Early Diagnosis Matters
Poor performance is often the first sign of an underlying issue. Identifying the cause early can:
- Prevent long-term injury
- Reduce recovery time
- Improve performance outcomes
- Enhance your horse’s comfort and welfare
Ignoring subtle signs can allow small problems to develop into more significant conditions.
Supporting Your Horse’s Performance
At Little Rock Equine Vets Ltd, we understand how important your horse’s performance and wellbeing are. Our goal is to provide a clear diagnosis and a practical plan to get your horse back to feeling and performing at their best.
If your horse isn’t quite right this season, don’t wait—early assessment can make all the difference.
📞 Contact Little Rock Equine Vets Ltd on 01782 898102 to discuss a poor performance investigation or lameness work-up.