Name two common postural compensations seen with hindlimb lameness.

• A. Pelvic tilt and altered spinal curvature; asymmetrical weight distribution.
• B. Head tilt and tail wagging.
• C. Bilateral symmetrical stance.
• D. Increased respiratory rate.

Answer: (A)

When hindlimb lameness is present, the body automatically shifts weight to limit load on the painful limb. This leads to a pelvic tilt as the pelvis sits unevenly due to asymmetric hind limb loading, and the spine may adjust its curvature to keep the trunk balanced over the supporting limbs. The result is an overall asymmetrical weight distribution, with more weight borne by the front end and the sound hind limb, and less on the affected hind limb. These two postural changes—pelvic tilt and altered spinal curvature—are the common compensations you’ll see. Head tilt or tail wagging aren’t typical structural responses to hindlimb pain, bilateral symmetrical stance suggests no unilateral lameness, and an increased respiratory rate isn’t a specific postural adjustment for hindlimb lameness.