Case Library
The RHpE has revealed serious conditions that standard checks had missed, often after a horse had already been passed as sound. These are the kinds of situations where objective information changes the outcome.
Typical cases
Situation
A horse repeatedly labelled difficult was exceeding the RHpE threshold under saddle. The behavioural signs were consistent, but had been attributed to temperament. Clinical examination had also revealed focal neck pain on pressure and restricted neck range of motion. A structured RHpE assessment provided the clinical rationale to push investigation beyond the standard examination.
What the RHpE showed
RHpE score: 14/24. The score indicated significant discomfort under saddle and prompted a thorough clinical assessment including imaging of the cervical spine.
Resolution
Imaging confirmed cervical osteoarthritis. Targeted treatment was initiated. Follow-up RHpE scores showed a marked improvement, in parallel with the clinical progression.
Situation
A gradual decline in willingness to work, with subtle facial and mouth markers easy to dismiss as stress or temperament. The behaviours were present but inconsistent, making a direct conversation about health difficult. No gait abnormalities were seen during the ridden assessment.
What the RHpE showed
RHpE score: 6/24, rising to 7/24 on a second assessment — below the threshold usually associated with musculoskeletal pain, but with a marker profile and progression warranting further investigation.
Resolution
Gastroscopy confirmed grade 4 squamous ulcers. A course of omeprazole and management changes were introduced. The RHpE score dropped to 2/24 at follow-up.
Situation
A pre-purchase examination of a horse appearing sound in hand and on the lunge. The objective of the assessment was to obtain a structured ridden picture to complement the standard clinical examination. When ridden, occasional lame steps were seen on the right forelimb when the horse turned to the right and on the left forelimb when turned to the left. The RHpE score was 11/24, exceeding the threshold for musculoskeletal pain and indicating an underlying problem. The horse was considered a high risk for purchase for the intended use.
What the RHpE showed
RHpE score: 11/24. Under saddle, 11 of the 24 markers were identified, concentrated in the locomotion and global behaviour clusters. The score — well above the pain threshold — indicated a ridden picture inconsistent with a horse suited to the intended competition programme.
Resolution
Further investigation confirmed bilateral forelimb lameness. The structured ridden evidence was decisive in the purchase decision.
Situation
A horse returning to work after diagnosis and treatment of bilateral hindlimb lameness. The question: how quickly to increase workload, and how to objectify functional progression?
What the RHpE showed
Serial RHpE assessments were carried out at regular intervals during rehabilitation. The scores provided a functional measure of progression — showing when markers were receding and allowing more confident training decisions.
Resolution
The score trajectory guided clinical decisions at each stage of rehabilitation — confirming when to intensify training and when to slow down, with data rather than estimates.
Case studies illustrate the kinds of conditions the RHpE has helped surface. Kairon is a screening aid; any finding should be confirmed through veterinary investigation.
Track change over time
Establish a baseline, then measure the impact of a treatment, a tack change, a rehabilitation period or the run-up to a competition. The value is not just knowing today — it is seeing whether things are getting better or worse.
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