Lameness

Lameness is a descriptive term which is used to define a reluctance or inability to weight bear on one or more limbs, similar to a limp in humans. The causes of lameness are vast, as it may stem from almost anywhere in the body ranging from feet to back, and may also be of pathological origin such as a neurological or orthopaedic condition. Lameness can also be constant or intermittent, and sudden (acute) or gradual in onset.

Lameness is most commonly classified according to the Obel Lameness Grades, which quantifies the degree of lameness. Again, this is also descriptive, and does not necessarily correlate to severity of underlying conditions, and should not be confused with a diagnosis. It is nevertheless a very useful tool for clinicians, and handy for owners who are monitoring their animal's condition following veterinary or physiotherapy consultation.

The lameness grades (in short)

difficult to observe and is not consistently apparent regardless of circumstances
difficult to observe at a walk/trotting in a straight line, consistently apparent under certain circumstances
consistently observable at a trot under all circumstances
obvious at a walk
minimal weight bearing in motion and/or at rest, complete inability to move, or non-weight bearing