An Article On Navicular Syndrome In Horses

By Mattie Knight


Human beings have horses as their favorites. This is because they benefit them all round. Many people, even those who own horses may not be aware that they are affected by a series of diseases. Major causes being their exposure and interactions with a lot of organisms. Horses also live under controlled conditions which may not be favorable for them. There is an endless list of diseases affecting horses. Navicular syndrome in horses is just but one to mention.

Navicular syndrome, in other places known to as navicular disease, is an infection that culminates in inflammation of the navicular bone of a horse. Inflammatory process could also spread to tissues surrounding the bone. As a result of inflammation, degeneration may occur. This condition is common with the front feet. Poor prognosis could result to lameness. The navicular bone is situated on the back of coffin bone in the horses limb. A number of ligaments and tendons attach this bone. Deep digital flexor tendon and the impar ligament are examples.

A sure cause of this disease has not been established yet. Nevertheless, several theories have been suggested concerning the cause. To start with, some theories suggest that thus syndrome is due to compression of this bone. Compression of the bone and the surrounding ligament leads to disintegration. Shock absorption is the main function of cartilages. Therefore, with degeneration, there will be an increase in friction.

Tension on the ligaments supporting the said bone is the other factor thought to cause this disease. Some experts believe that due to strenuous frequent activities by the horses, tension builds up on the ligaments causing strain and inflammation. This also affects blood supply to the affected area.

This disease occurrence is contributed by a number of factors. First and foremost, the conformation of the horses hoof determines the occurrence of this disease. Certain hoof conformations such as low toe, low heel are said to contribute to this. The pathophysiology behind this is that they exert stress on the bone. Poor shape of the hoof is also a contributing factor. This condition is however inherited.

Moving on, how the hoof is trimmed and the type of shoe it uses also contributes to this condition. Metal shoe is not good for horses. This is because they limit the normal expansion and contraction of the hoof as the horse moves. They therefore impair blood supply to lower parts. This results to inflammation of the affected parts.

The nature of work and weight of the horse also have an impact. Excessive work on hills leads to tension on the bone. Also, exercise on rugged grounds increases the risk of developing the disease. Regarding the body weight, those with a large body weight directly exert stress on the hoofs. Navicular bone being affected directly.

Signs and symptoms of a horse affected by the disease are easy to identify. Pain on the heels which results to limping of the horse is a common one. Hoof changes and lameness are other expected signs. To avoid and treat this, practice good trimming exercises, good care for hoofs, limited exercises and medications are necessary. Surgery is only done if all the above measures fail.




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