Diagnosing equine lameness can be tricky at times! When the source of the discomfort isn’t obvious, veterinarians might recommend a nerve block (usually in conjunction with a flexion test and a hoof tester exam). In this procedure, the leg is desensitized region by region with a local anesthetic. A valuable tool in the right hands, a nerve block can help pinpoint the area in which the pain is based through the process of elimination.

In this sixth installment of our series, brought to you by Zoetis, our expert explains how a diagnostic nerve block works, what’s involved, the role of anatomy, and why it’s important to start low and work one’s way up.

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