The Condition Of The Navicular Disease

By Janine Hughes


It is also known as the navicular syndrome and it is an illness that mainly affects horses. It is the inflammation of the navicular bone on the front feet of a horse and its surrounding tissues. In extreme cases it can lead to disability or lameness of the animal. It is therefore very necessary to treat navicular disease as soon as the symptoms start showing.

There are two main factors that are known to contribute to this ailment. First is the compression of the navicular bone. The compression of the area surrounding this bone, leads to the degradation of the cartilage. The degradation can continue to a point where one of the bone underneath is exposed. The bone becomes more brittle and its chances of breaking increases.

Tension of the ligaments that support the navicular bone is also another factor. Tension at the ligaments reduces the flow of blood and causes strain and inflammation at the foot. This tension is also accompanied with high blood pressure inside the bone that causes some minerals to be absorbed from the center. Very high tension gives a canoe shape to the foot.

The horse will show some symptoms like stumbling, walking on its toes and the soreness of the foot. These symptoms are very easy to notice because the horse is subjected to immense pain. After months have passed you will notice the affected foot will change in shape. It will look narrower or thinner and more upright than normal.

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.

Foot shape and form can be improved through trimming. A number of horses who have underrun heels are mostly affected by the disease. This practice assists in changing biomechanical and other balance of the foot. This will stimulate the foot and will improve the condition of the limb.

Shoeing is also an important hoof care. It helps in supporting the heel and assist in heel related problems. It increases the circulation of blood at the heel and promote a proper foot shape. There are a variety of shoe types that one can choose from. Each type will have its own added advantages.

Just like any other disease, exercise of the body is very important. One can take them for a slow long distance walk to help them relax their muscles. Swimming is also a great exercise. One should avoid making them run at high speed or on surfaces that cause strain. Jumping is also not good for the horse during this treatment.

Is is very important to consult the person who treats your horses if you notice the symptoms. He or she should be in a position to give some expert advice depending on the condition of your animal




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