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The Fatal Horse Navicular Disease

By Janine Hughes


Navicular disease is an illness that is very common to horses. It is experienced through the inflammation of the surrounding tissue of the navicular bone on the front feet. It can lead to lameness or some disability if left untreated or unmanaged. It is always advisable to start managing the condition as soon as you notice the symptoms.

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.

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.

One should also consider shoeing their horses. Shoes help a lot in managing the problems that affect the feet. Since there are so many types of shoes one should be very careful while choosing the type of shoe you want for your horse. Each type is known for its own special advantages.

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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