Indicators Of Navicular Syndrome In Horses

By Janine Hughes


It is a degenerative condition of structures in the heel of the animal. The navicular bone is situated at the lower part of the hoof of the animal. The area surrounding the bone compresses and in turn affects the cartilage present thus interfering with its functioning. Navicular syndrome in horses causes immense pain to the animal making it hard for the horse to walk. Affected horses portray various symptoms in this condition.

Feebleness is one of the signs of this condition in affected horses. With time, the sign becomes more visible and the animal starts becoming weak while walking. Thus, if there is a suspicion that an animal is affected by this deadly syndrome, it is quite worth it checking on this specific sign in the animal.

Movements of the horse experiencing the critical condition is totally difficult. This is due to the pain that is caused by the tension and much pressure and compression in the bone. Any attempt by the horse to reduce pressure causes unsteady and funny movements. Speculation of the disease should also be followed by checking out on how the animal moves.

At rest, the horse may maintain its affected limb in a pointing position to reduce the pressure in the region. Pressure is the cause of the pain in the horse and a resting position concentrates much weight on the limbs, thus the animal opts to raise it in this pointy position. Horses resting in such positions on their feet should be checked whether they have the problem.

Other commons signs include shortened stumbling which is most visible when the animals is moving downhill. This is because, the topography of such areas is not even forcing the animal to tense and strain making it more painful. To relieve itself, it starts with the front toe instead of the entire heel to reduce pressure and pain at the same time. Those stiff and short strides can be a real signal of the effects of the navicular menace.

Difficulty in navigation is also experienced. The horse finds it extremely difficult to make sharp turns or move downhill. The terrain of these places is uneven and it causes increased pressure, strain and tension on the limbs of the animal. Hence, the horse has to try to ease the pain. Navigation problems are therefore strong indicators of navicular syndrome.

When it comes to picking up the front legs of the horse for either trimming or shoeing them, the animal gets rather uncooperative. This is due to the fact that the animal has to support itself on the affected foot and pain is rather sharp due to tension and pressure. If any case on pain and less cooperation in lifting up the foot by the owner is experienced, that is a sign of the ailment.

The above are signs of the effects of this disease. It is a condition that causes a lot of discomfort in horses and reduces their overall performance in work. Once they are pointed out, necessary actions should be taken to ensure proper care and maintenance is administered before the condition deteriorates and causes early retirement of horses.




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