Horses are among mans most favorite animal. They are used for a variety of functions. Though many people may not be aware of this, horses are affected by a lot of diseases. This is because of their environment since they are tamed and lived in control conditions and other interactions which exposes them to these diseases. There are many known infections affecting horses. This article will concentrate on navicular syndrome in horses.
To begin with, navicular syndrome also referred to as navicular disease describes an inflammation on the navicular bone and the surrounding tissues. It could also mean degeneration of the same. This usually occurs in the front feet. Worsening of this condition could even lead to lameness of a horse. The navicular area in brief describes a part on the limb in the horse, behind the coffin bone. It is supported by several ligaments and tendons including the deep digital flexor tendon and impar ligament. Their main function is to ensure strong attachment of the bone to the joint
Currently, there has be no proof of a single cause of this disease. There are only theories suggesting its cause. The first theory suggest it is due to compression of this bone. Repeated compression of this bone and the deep digital flexor results to degeneration of the cartilage. The main role of a cartilage is to absorb shock on the joint. Degeneration therefore results to erosion thus increased friction.
Tension on the ligaments supporting the said bone is the other factor thought to cause this disease. Some experts believe that due to strenuous frequent activities by the horses, tension builds up on the ligaments causing strain and inflammation. This also affects blood supply to the affected area.
Apart from causes, there are various factors that contribute to this condition. How the hoof is conformed is the first factor. Some hoof conformation for instance low toe, low heel conformation may contribute to this condition. Inappropriate conformation of the hoof exert a lot of stress on the hoof bone. An inherited condition of poor hoof shape is also a contributing factor.
Moving on, how the hoof is trimmed and the type of shoe it uses also contributes to this condition. Metal shoe is not good for horses. This is because they limit the normal expansion and contraction of the hoof as the horse moves. They therefore impair blood supply to lower parts. This results to inflammation of the affected parts.
The nature of work and weight of the horse also have an impact. Excessive work on hills leads to tension on the bone. Also, exercise on rugged grounds increases the risk of developing the disease. Regarding the body weight, those with a large body weight directly exert stress on the hoofs. Navicular bone being affected directly.
Signs of infection include heel pain resulting to tip toeing of the horse, changes in shape of hoof and ultimately lameness. Treatment of this syndrome includes proper trimming, hoof care, reduced exercise and adequate medication. Surgery is the treatment option of the last resort.
To begin with, navicular syndrome also referred to as navicular disease describes an inflammation on the navicular bone and the surrounding tissues. It could also mean degeneration of the same. This usually occurs in the front feet. Worsening of this condition could even lead to lameness of a horse. The navicular area in brief describes a part on the limb in the horse, behind the coffin bone. It is supported by several ligaments and tendons including the deep digital flexor tendon and impar ligament. Their main function is to ensure strong attachment of the bone to the joint
Currently, there has be no proof of a single cause of this disease. There are only theories suggesting its cause. The first theory suggest it is due to compression of this bone. Repeated compression of this bone and the deep digital flexor results to degeneration of the cartilage. The main role of a cartilage is to absorb shock on the joint. Degeneration therefore results to erosion thus increased friction.
Tension on the ligaments supporting the said bone is the other factor thought to cause this disease. Some experts believe that due to strenuous frequent activities by the horses, tension builds up on the ligaments causing strain and inflammation. This also affects blood supply to the affected area.
Apart from causes, there are various factors that contribute to this condition. How the hoof is conformed is the first factor. Some hoof conformation for instance low toe, low heel conformation may contribute to this condition. Inappropriate conformation of the hoof exert a lot of stress on the hoof bone. An inherited condition of poor hoof shape is also a contributing factor.
Moving on, how the hoof is trimmed and the type of shoe it uses also contributes to this condition. Metal shoe is not good for horses. This is because they limit the normal expansion and contraction of the hoof as the horse moves. They therefore impair blood supply to lower parts. This results to inflammation of the affected parts.
The nature of work and weight of the horse also have an impact. Excessive work on hills leads to tension on the bone. Also, exercise on rugged grounds increases the risk of developing the disease. Regarding the body weight, those with a large body weight directly exert stress on the hoofs. Navicular bone being affected directly.
Signs of infection include heel pain resulting to tip toeing of the horse, changes in shape of hoof and ultimately lameness. Treatment of this syndrome includes proper trimming, hoof care, reduced exercise and adequate medication. Surgery is the treatment option of the last resort.
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