Navicular Disease As Fatal In Horses

By Janine Hughes


It is a condition that mainly affects the foot of the horse. It is an inflammation that is experienced around the navicular bone mainly on the front limbs. As soon as the symptoms start showing the condition should be treated since in extreme cases it can lead to lameness. Navicular disease can be fatal if not treated.

The two factors that largely contribute to the development of this disease is tension and compression of the bone and its surrounding structures. Compression causes the cartilage to perform functions poorly. It causes degradation that leads to the exposure of the bone beneath it. The exposed bone becomes more prone to other external forces. This whole process causes a lot of pain to the animal.

It is also believed that the tension placed on ligaments supporting the navicular bone contribute to the syndrome. Tension causes inflammation and a lot of strain that decreases the blood flow to the bone. There is also pressure that builds up inside the bone. All these things causes absorption of some minerals from the center of the bone. Excess tension also gives the bone a canoe shape or make the ligaments tear.

Since the horse is subjected to a lot of pain, it is easy to notice the symptoms. The horse would try to walk on its toes due to the pain it is experiencing at the heel. The horse will stumble most of the times. The affected foot will appear to be sore and after several months it may change shape. It will appear more upright and narrowed.

There has not been a single treatment that has worked for the navicular syndrome. This is because, there is no particular thing that is said to cause the disease. The disease is a result of a process. The changes that occur at the bone are not reversible therefore very little that can be done. One should try and manage the condition by focusing on how to ease the pain at the hooves.

Trimming is a great foot care that improves the foot form. Most of the horses that have long toes and underrun heels are mainly affected by the syndrome. Trimming will help in improving the biomechanical and the neurological balance of the foot. It will also expose the foot to proper stimulus that will improve the form of the hoof.

Shoeing is also a vital hoof care. It ensures support to the heel and help in heel related hazards. It aids in blood circulation in the heel and increase a good foot form. There are many shoe types which one can select from. Every one of them has its own benefits.

Exercise is a very important aspect when it comes to control and treatment of ailments. One is therefore required to exercise the horse so as to build the physique. It will promote good circulation with in the body. Slow long distance walks and swimming are very helpful during control of the disease. One should not engage them in vigorous exercises like running at very high speeds. The horses should not also be strained while walking on very rocky surfaces or even jumping.

The illness can be managed through a number of methods. It is always advisable to seek advice from your vet. They may have some medication that will fasten the healing process.




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