In some parts of the world, horses play an integral role in many economic activities. They participate in physical labor, transport, or in traditional community functions. But like people, they are also at risk of injury or illness. Navicular syndrome is a known issue with horses, one which causes partial or total lameness and potential withdrawal from service.
The navicular bone is situated at the bottom of the equine foot, in the heel. The syndrome is caused by the inflammation of this bone and usually involves its supportive tissue as well. This is most commonly associated with the animal's front feet. The condition makes the horse move with difficulty or not at all. It also involves significant pain.
People have been trying to find the exact explanation for this syndrome for some time. There are various factors at play, such as the size and shape of the hooves, the use or absence of horse shoes, the technique used to shoe the horses, and the type of activity that the horse is used in. None of these factors has been established as the sole reason, but they all seem to be involved to some extent.
The hooves' size and shape is important. Horses with a higher body mass and more diminutive hoof profile, or high weight-to-hoof ratio, may experience injury in the navicular structure. This is due to the obvious skeletal impact of their weight, and the same concept is seen in overweight people who develop premature arthritis or other joint problems. This issue depends to a certain degree on the horse's breed.
There are those who advise against the use of horse shoes. However, navicular inflammation has been seen in wild horses so this is not a definite cause. Where shoes are used, they should be the correct size and they should also be attached properly. Incorrect shoes are a known source of problems. Poor trimming of hooves is another.
Horses which spend most of their time on hard surfaces or carrying heavy loads obviously suffer more orthopedic strain and are more likely to contract injuries, as do those employed on steep slopes. Conversely, race horses also develop navicular bone trouble because they spend so much time standing still. A stationary horse cannot alleviate the static load of its own weight on its hooves, or alter its position, and this is why horses locked up in stalls for extended periods may also become lame.
Available treatment draws on the entire spectrum of veterinary science. Trimming and shoes can be modified according to each specific case, or the shoes can be done away with completely. The horse's work routine may also need to be changed, either on a temporary or permanent basis. Medication can be used to treat symptoms, while surgery is a last resort. However, these latter methods may both cause complications. The prognosis is not always entirely positive so animals should not automatically be expected to return to their ordinary duties after treatment.
Understanding this condition is important in the care and use of horses. It causes considerable pain to the animal and it should not be neglected. If arrested in time, the horse may continue to work for several years afterwards, even with a reduced workload. Horses might not get paid a salary, but sometimes they need the same attention to their welfare as their human colleagues.
The navicular bone is situated at the bottom of the equine foot, in the heel. The syndrome is caused by the inflammation of this bone and usually involves its supportive tissue as well. This is most commonly associated with the animal's front feet. The condition makes the horse move with difficulty or not at all. It also involves significant pain.
People have been trying to find the exact explanation for this syndrome for some time. There are various factors at play, such as the size and shape of the hooves, the use or absence of horse shoes, the technique used to shoe the horses, and the type of activity that the horse is used in. None of these factors has been established as the sole reason, but they all seem to be involved to some extent.
The hooves' size and shape is important. Horses with a higher body mass and more diminutive hoof profile, or high weight-to-hoof ratio, may experience injury in the navicular structure. This is due to the obvious skeletal impact of their weight, and the same concept is seen in overweight people who develop premature arthritis or other joint problems. This issue depends to a certain degree on the horse's breed.
There are those who advise against the use of horse shoes. However, navicular inflammation has been seen in wild horses so this is not a definite cause. Where shoes are used, they should be the correct size and they should also be attached properly. Incorrect shoes are a known source of problems. Poor trimming of hooves is another.
Horses which spend most of their time on hard surfaces or carrying heavy loads obviously suffer more orthopedic strain and are more likely to contract injuries, as do those employed on steep slopes. Conversely, race horses also develop navicular bone trouble because they spend so much time standing still. A stationary horse cannot alleviate the static load of its own weight on its hooves, or alter its position, and this is why horses locked up in stalls for extended periods may also become lame.
Available treatment draws on the entire spectrum of veterinary science. Trimming and shoes can be modified according to each specific case, or the shoes can be done away with completely. The horse's work routine may also need to be changed, either on a temporary or permanent basis. Medication can be used to treat symptoms, while surgery is a last resort. However, these latter methods may both cause complications. The prognosis is not always entirely positive so animals should not automatically be expected to return to their ordinary duties after treatment.
Understanding this condition is important in the care and use of horses. It causes considerable pain to the animal and it should not be neglected. If arrested in time, the horse may continue to work for several years afterwards, even with a reduced workload. Horses might not get paid a salary, but sometimes they need the same attention to their welfare as their human colleagues.
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