The Truth About Navicular Disease In Horses

By Ina Hunt


One can never deny the fact that horses have done a lot for humanity and its growth. This equine has already proved its value over so many years already. They were used to haul and transport various materials long before people made trucks. They were used as a mode of travel long before people had cars and other automobiles. They were used in warfare before the existence of tankers. Indeed, the relationship between this beast and man goes way back to as early as four thousand years ago and older.

In the latter day setting, horses are now bred for its appearance. Horses today are treated well and are given their basic needs and more, but there will always be instances when an equine needs medical attention due to a sickness, especially if it is navicular disease in horses.

The Navicular Syndrome is caused by the irritation of the navicular bone. This particular bone is a common feature in the feet of most animals. Most beasts feel pain with every step due to sore hooves caused about by the said illness. If the illness is not tended to as soon as possible, it may cause the beast to become lame.

There are really no exact reasons why this particular disease hits quadrupeds. Experts on equine care have their own theories and discussions as to why this happens, as here are some of their calculated guesses. One is overexertion. Lack of rest, as they are to stand all day long, can cause heavy strain on the feet of quadrupeds. Horses with bigger body mass also tend to develop navicular syndrome, as the hooves struggle to support all the extra weight.

Old age plays a role in the progression of the said illness, but it is not really a major factor. This certain disease usually afflicts equines who are at their prime, at their working age of seven to nine years old. Some even develop this problem in as early as only three years of age.

The metal fixes on the hooves of most horses can also alleviate the said condition. Horse shoes are believed to be causing irregular blood flow to the certain part of the body of the horse, leading to complications. The hoof is supposed to contract and expand along with the horse as it grows, so the wrong fit will inhibit the hoof to do that.

The location where the beast often works is also a contributing factor. If the beast works in out of the way areas such as on steep hills, frequent walking on the said terrain will put immense strain on the hooves. Jumping and galloping are also some activities that might cause a negative effect on the navicular bone.

The sickness is curable, as long as it is treated early. The first step is to change the shoes that were first fitted to the horse. Some times raising the shoe a few degrees more will be able to help. This is done by applying a small pad which raises the angle of the foot. This varies from one horse to the other, so there are no fixed numbers.

You can also try the administration of drugs to a particular horse. Vets often prescribe anti inflammatory ones to fight off the burns and the soreness. Since the results of the medication will not be the same for all equines, it would be best to take the beast in question to see a medical professional.




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