Poor Performance Evaluations

Poor performance is rarely a diagnosis—it is a symptom. Using a thorough clinical assessment and advanced diagnostic techniques, we work systematically to identify the underlying cause and help your horse return to peak performance.

When a horse is not performing to its usual standard, there is almost always an underlying reason. Whether it is a subtle loss of athletic ability, reluctance to work, behavioural changes under saddle or a decline in race or competition results, our goal is to identify the cause and develop a clear plan to get your horse back to performing at its best.

At KR Equine Veterinary Services Ltd, we understand that poor performance is rarely caused by a single problem. Our structured, evidence-based approach combines careful clinical assessment with advanced diagnostic imaging and laboratory testing to build a complete picture of your horse’s health and athletic function.

Every Investigation Starts with Listening

One of the most important parts of any poor performance investigation is understanding exactly what has changed.

We take time to discuss your horse’s history in detail, including:

• When the problem first became apparent
• Changes in performance or behaviour
• Training and competition schedule
• Previous injuries or medical conditions
• Shoeing and saddle history
• Feeding and management
• Any recent changes in routine or workload

Often, seemingly small details provide valuable clues that help guide the investigation.

A Thorough Clinical Examination

Every horse undergoes a comprehensive clinical examination, both at rest and, where appropriate, during exercise.

Depending on the presenting complaint, this may include:

• Full physical examination
• Lameness assessment
• Flexion tests
• Dynamic gait evaluation
• Respiratory assessment
• Cardiac auscultation
• Musculoskeletal examination
• Oral and dental examination

Our aim is to identify subtle abnormalities that may not be obvious during routine examinations.

Advanced Diagnostic Imaging

Modern diagnostic imaging allows us to investigate structures that cannot be fully assessed through clinical examination alone.

Depending on your horse’s signs, we may recommend:

Digital Radiography (X-rays)

Used to assess bones and joints for arthritis, stress injuries, developmental abnormalities and other orthopaedic conditions.

High-Resolution Ultrasound

Ideal for evaluating tendons, ligaments, muscles, joint capsules, the abdomen and selected areas of the neck and back. Ultrasound also allows us to perform precision-guided therapeutic injections where appropriate.

Gastroscopy

Equine gastric ulcer syndrome is a recognised cause of poor performance, weight loss, behavioural change and reduced appetite.

Gastroscopy allows direct visual examination of the stomach, enabling us to diagnose gastric ulcers accurately and recommend the most appropriate treatment and management plan.

Oral Examination & High-Definition Oroscopy

Dental discomfort can have a significant impact on performance.

Using our high-definition oroscope, we perform a detailed examination of the mouth, allowing both our veterinary surgeons and owners to visualise dental abnormalities that may otherwise remain hidden.

This enables us to identify problems affecting comfort, bitting and ridden performance while explaining our findings clearly using real-time images.

Laboratory Testing

Blood tests often provide valuable information when investigating unexplained poor performance.

Depending on the clinical findings, we may assess:

• Muscle enzymes
• Markers of inflammation
• Organ function
• Hormonal disorders where appropriate
• Evidence of infection
• Electrolyte balance
• Nutritional status

Additional laboratory testing may also be recommended when indicated by the horse’s history or examination.

A Tailored Investigation

No two horses are the same, and neither are their investigations.

Some horses require only a detailed examination to identify the cause, while others benefit from a combination of imaging, endoscopy and laboratory testing.

Our investigations are tailored to each horse, ensuring that every diagnostic test has a clear purpose and contributes towards reaching an accurate diagnosis.

From Diagnosis to Treatment

Identifying the problem is only the first step.

Once a diagnosis has been made, we work closely with owners, riders, trainers and other professionals to develop an individual treatment and rehabilitation plan.

This may include:

• Medical treatment
• Image-guided joint or soft tissue therapies
• Rehabilitation programmes
• Dental treatment
• Nutritional advice
• Training modifications
• Referral for advanced imaging or specialist care where appropriate

Throughout the process, we keep you fully informed, ensuring you understand both the diagnosis and the treatment options available.

Helping Your Horse Reach Its Potential

Poor performance investigations are about much more than finding a single diagnosis. They are about understanding your horse as an athlete.

By combining careful history-taking, a thorough clinical examination and advanced diagnostic technology—including digital radiography, ultrasound, gastroscopy, high-definition oral endoscopy and laboratory testing—we aim to identify the factors limiting performance and provide practical, evidence-based solutions.

Whether your horse is competing at the highest level or simply not feeling quite right at home, our experienced equine vets are committed to finding answers, restoring confidence and helping every horse perform to its full potential.