The Fatal Horse Navicular Disease

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.

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 experienced by the ligaments at the navicular bone is the second contributing factor. The strain of the ligaments leads to reduced blood flow. There is also high blood pressure experienced inside the bone. This causes some of the vital minerals to be adsorbed from the center of the bone. The bone becomes weak and prone to changes in shape.

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.

This disease has not yet found its treatment since is not caused by a specific agent. This illness is a result of several processes occurring. The changes are permanent so there is negligible efforts which can be made. One may try to contain the condition by concentrating on how to reduce pain and discomfort 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.

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.

The illness can only be fatal when it is not noted and controlled. It can be easily managed through a number of ways. One should always seek professional advice from a local vet.




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