Navicular disease, also known as navicular syndrome, is a common condition affecting the navicular bone and surrounding tissues in the horse's hoof. The navicular bone is a small, boat-shaped bone located in the heel of the hoof, and it plays a crucial role in the horse's movement and weight-bearing ability. Navicular disease can cause significant pain and discomfort for the horse, leading to lameness and decreased performance. In this article, we will explore the causes of navicular disease and discuss expert treatment options available to horse owners.
Causes of Navicular Disease
Navicular disease is a complex condition, and its exact causes are still not fully understood. However, several factors are believed to contribute to the development of navicular disease, including conformational issues, such as a club foot or a toe-in or toe-out conformation, which can put additional stress on the navicular bone and surrounding tissues. Other factors, such as trauma, repetitive stress, and poor hoof care, can also contribute to the development of navicular disease.
Conformational Issues
Conformational issues, such as a club foot or a toe-in or toe-out conformation, can put additional stress on the navicular bone and surrounding tissues. Horses with these conformational issues may be more prone to developing navicular disease, especially if they are not properly trimmed and shod. Regular trimming and shoeing can help to reduce the stress on the navicular bone and surrounding tissues, but it is essential to work with a qualified farrier or veterinarian to ensure that the horse is receiving proper care.
Trauma and Repetitive Stress
Trauma and repetitive stress can also contribute to the development of navicular disease. Horses that participate in high-impact activities, such as jumping or racings, may be more prone to developing navicular disease due to the repetitive stress on the navicular bone and surrounding tissues. Additionally, horses that experience a traumatic injury to the hoof or leg may also be at risk of developing navicular disease.
| Conformational Issue | Risk of Navicular Disease |
|---|---|
| Club foot | High |
| Toe-in or toe-out conformation | Moderate |
| Normal conformation | Low |
Expert Treatment Options
Treatment for navicular disease typically involves a combination of medical therapy, hoof care, and management changes. The goal of treatment is to reduce pain and inflammation, promote healing, and improve the horse’s overall comfort and performance. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to address underlying conformational issues or to repair damaged tissues.
Medical Therapy
Medical therapy for navicular disease may include the use of anti-inflammatory medications, such as phenylbutazone or flunixin meglumine, to reduce pain and inflammation. Additionally, injectable medications, such as corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid, may be used to promote healing and reduce inflammation in the navicular bone and surrounding tissues.
Hoof Care
Proper hoof care is essential for managing navicular disease. This may include regular trimming and shoeing to reduce stress on the navicular bone and surrounding tissues, as well as the use of orthotics or supportive devices to provide additional support and stability to the hoof.
Management Changes
Management changes, such as reducing the horse’s workload or providing regular exercise and turnout, can also help to manage navicular disease. Additionally, changes to the horse’s diet may be necessary to ensure that the horse is receiving adequate nutrition to support healing and overall health.
- Reduce the horse's workload
- Provide regular exercise and turnout
- Make changes to the horse's diet as necessary
What are the symptoms of navicular disease?
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The symptoms of navicular disease may include lameness, pain, and stiffness in the heel and hoof, as well as a decreased willingness to move or perform.
How is navicular disease diagnosed?
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Navicular disease is typically diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, radiographs, and other diagnostic tests, such as ultrasound or MRI.
What is the prognosis for horses with navicular disease?
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The prognosis for horses with navicular disease varies depending on the severity of the condition and the effectiveness of treatment. With proper care and management, many horses with navicular disease can experience significant improvement and return to their normal activities.
