Sports Medicine and Lameness
Finding the cause, not masking the symptom
Every horse tells a story. At Performance Equine Specialists, we do not treat problems by guesswork. We start with the truth to find out what is really wrong, where it began, and what it will take to get that horse sound again.
“We don’t guess. We diagnose, explain, and treat what’s real, not what’s convenient.”
Dr. Ellis Farstvedt
A Diagnostic-First Approach
By the time many horses arrive in Arizona for the winter circuit, they have already received the standard care, joint injections, chiropractic work, and body therapy. But something still is not right. That is where we step in.
Our process begins with a comprehensive lameness evaluation that considers the whole horse, not just the obvious symptoms. We combine hands-on assessment, gait and motion analysis, and Diagnostic Imaging to pinpoint the exact cause of discomfort or performance limitation.
“When horses get to Arizona, they have usually had the normal maintenance done, but they still have a problem. That is where we come in.”
Dr. Ellis Farstvedt
Dr. Farstvedt and the team believe in practical, plainspoken answers. You will never receive a vague explanation or a generic care plan. Every diagnosis includes a conversation that makes sense to trainers, owners, and referring veterinarians. If your case needs follow-up treatment, we work closely with our Regenerative Medicine and Surgery teams to recommend targeted recovery options.
Advanced Imaging and Evaluation
Real sports medicine starts with real data. That is why we bring hospital-level imaging directly to the horse.
- Digital Radiography, DR, fast, high-resolution skeletal imaging
- Digital Ultrasound, soft tissue and tendon evaluation
- Endoscopy and Gastroscopy, for upper airway and gastric concerns
- MRI and CT access through trusted referral hospitals
“Computer technology changed everything, especially image quality. MRI, CT, radiographs, ultrasounds, the detail we get now is astronomical.”
Dr. Ellis Farstvedt
We interpret each image in the full clinical context, including movement, history, and anatomy, so our treatment plans are based on evidence, not assumption. Learn more on our Diagnostic Imaging page.
Targeted Treatment and Regenerative Therapy
Once the root issue is found, recovery becomes the focus. Performance Equine Specialists offers a full suite of evidence-based treatments to restore soundness and performance:
- Joint therapies, PRP, Arthramid, and traditional injectables
- Regenerative treatments, PRP, A2M, stem cell, and plasma-based therapy
- Rehabilitation coordination, collaborative plans with farriers and trainers
“Regenerative therapy isn’t about trends. It’s about biology, helping the body repair itself in the most natural way possible.”
Dr. Ellis Farstvedt
Each case is handled individually. Some horses need rest and rehab. Others require surgery. Many need a combination of both. What never changes is honesty.
“We will deliver bad news if that’s what is honest. We would rather tell the truth than say what is easy. That is what builds trust.”
Dr. Ellis Farstvedt
For a deeper look at our biologic and regenerative treatments, visit the Regenerative Medicine page.
Collaboration Makes the Difference
Lameness is rarely solved in isolation. Performance Equine Specialists works directly with farriers, trainers, and referring veterinarians to ensure each treatment plan is grounded, consistent, and tailored to the horse’s needs.
“Good veterinary medicine isn’t a competition. It’s a collaboration. When vets work together, horses win.”
Dr. Ellis Farstvedt
That spirit of teamwork defines how we work. Skill, science, and communication come together to produce better outcomes.
Getting Your Horse Back to Form
Every case begins with a thorough evaluation and a plan that makes sense. Whether your horse is facing a subtle lameness, a long-standing issue, or you need a pre-purchase assessment, we are here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
Visit the Contact page to schedule a consultation, or see our Services Overview for related care, including surgery, imaging, and general veterinary support.