Flexion tests are routinely used to assess equine lameness but are controversial due to their potential to cause pain. Understanding their welfare implications helps horse owners make informed decisions.
Flexion tests occupy a contested space in equine welfare because they cause discomfort to precisely the horses who are already experiencing pain. Artificially flexing an inflamed joint for 60-90 seconds causes additional pain that can persist after the test. The diagnostic value is also imperfect - tests produce false positives in horses without lameness issues and false negatives when lesions are not provoked by the specific flexion applied. The combination of welfare cost and imperfect accuracy has led some veterinary specialists to minimize or eliminate flexion testing in favor of more targeted diagnostic approaches. When flexion tests are performed, they should be done with awareness of their welfare cost and with appropriate justification for their use.