DSMD (idiopathic hopping) is a commonly missed cause of front-end pain in horses, linked to dysfunction of the scapular and thoracic sling rather than the lower limb. Learn the signs, why it’s often overlooked, and when veterinary evaluation matters.

Performance lameness does not always present as a clear head-nod or limp. In many sport horses, discomfort in the neck, back, or pelvis shows up first as subtle performance decline rather than obvious limb lameness.

The neck influences balance, stride, shock absorption, and nerve function. When cervical structure is compromised, movement and performance across the whole body are affected.

ECVM often shows up as subtle performance changes, behavioral resistance, or intermittent pain. Recognizing these patterns is key—but diagnosis requires veterinary evaluation and imaging.