cause most horses that have airway problems do not have EPM it is often missed in its early stages, the astute observer may notice signs of ‘quidding’ (food material in the nostrils) and atrophy of the temporalis and/or masseter muscles. (Fenger, 1996)Secondary clinical signs are the result of injury to other structures such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments due to ataxia and nerve dysfunction. Upward fixation of the patella is common, probably because of quadriceps weakness. Other problems such as bucked shins, splints and bowed tendons can occur due to the tendency for these animals to travel very heavily on the forehand. Another common side effect is back soreness-often severe-resulting from the asymmetric use of the limbs. (Fenger, 1996)EPM can often be seen by observing horses during training however, it may easily be overlooked or attributed to a number of other ailments. Early signs may include evident discomfort and weakness in the rear limbs. Frequent bucking, head tossing or excessively high head carriage. Minimal forward extension at the gallop and difficulty maintaining a specific lead, and negotiating turns are all symptoms; the horse may cross-canter or frequently change leads. The front limbs may seem to “float” at the trot, or the horse may drag one or all of its feet. Racehorses frequently have trouble breaking from the starting gate, and/or maintaining position in the turns. An important sign of EPM that is probably most often overlooked is many horses with the disease develop a bad attitude towards training, due to a lack of confidence, or pain associated with secondary problems. (Fenger, 1996) Horses that exhibit these problems should be evaluated by a vet for other neurological abnormalities.EPM can mimic any other neurological disease and therefore can be very difficult to diagnose effectively. The clinical signs can range from very mild to severe and the progression of the disease slow or ...
