Best Care Options For Navicular Disease

By Deanne Shepard


Like human beings, horses too become ill and may need proper care to be of good health. Good health is best for optimal service by this animal and hence all diseases need to be managed in time; whether acute or chronic. One most common disease that disables these animals is navicular disease. Its onset is gradual but may cause devastating effects if not attended to in time.

The ailment commonly affects front leg of this animal. The particular bone affected is named as navicular. Occasionally, some or all of its surrounding tissues get involved leading to chronic damage and eventual disability. The hind legs are rarely affected and it is notable that horses with heavy weight experience this condition more than other light weight species.

Pointing out the exact events and or pathogens that may be responsible to this ailment is still a question left to the scholars. However, there are a number of speculations or theories that attempt to answer this concern. The very first theory proposes that compression of this bone and hence its surrounding support may be a cause sickness. Such compression leads to tear and wear of ligaments, cartilage and the bone in question.

A second theory states that ailment arise from tension related problems. In this case, the ligament supporting this bone experiences a continuous strain and consequently inflammation. In the long run, blood flow becomes grossly impaired leading to degeneration of poorly nourished bone. A third and last speculation in this case is that of toe first landing. Scholars have this far associated this particular illness with the first landing of toe. Landing event places so much tension and hence strains on the tendons alongside other supportive tissues. It is a consequence of misalignment of toe while in action.

Proper trimming and shoe selection are some of the basic practices which enable individuals to protect their horses from this chronic kind of sickness. In addition to this, one should avoid practices as steep slope riding, galloping as well as jumping as they have all been associated with the onset of this sickness. The practices named above build more tension and strain on supportive structures and hence leads to degeneration of the bone in question.

Pain on heals is the most striking symptom of this disease. As the pain worsens, affected animal becomes lame. Lameness begins as a mild and intermittent condition that worsens with time. After a long period of illness, feet may considerably change shape.

When sick, there are a number treatment options available to help restore quality life. One such option is adequate and proper trimming so as to balance biochemical as well as neurological aspects that sustain good health. Hoof care is equally important as alternative two. A third option may involve adequate resting and good timing of exercise time. Excessive exercise is unnecessary and hence a health risk to animals involved. As a last option, administering drugs and or surgical operation may be useful in relieving disease related conditions.

In summary, horses need good health just like any other animal or human being. They should be cared for to obtain optimal health. In case of a disease, effort should be made to restore their health. In addition, all animals must be used appropriately to avoid preventable illnesses.




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