Navicular means a progressive degenerative condition in horses, involving the navicular bone. The navicular bone is located in the hoof behind the coffin bone. This degenerative condition also does affect the bursa and tendons. The condition cannot be classified as a disease according to researchers. It is rather a syndrome of many or one abnormality. The abnormality usually occurs in one or both front feet of the animal. This is what Navicular disease in horses is all about.
Previously, it was difficult to get the exact location of the navicular bone in horses. As a result, it was necessary to learn more concerning the disorder. Nevertheless, advancements in technology have made it easier to pinpoint the precise spot where the bone is located. Changes that cause the condition to develop are now easy to identify due to the existence of better technology.
The use of MRI scans enables improved study of the structure of horse feet. Currently, it is largely understood that a number of medical problems have impact on different parts of the anatomy of a horse. Even though a number of medical problems can be completely treated, a number of them are still hard to treat. Additionally, specific horse breeds are known to be more vulnerable to the condition.
The development of the condition is often caused by the age factor. The condition worsens as the animal ages. Since horses of today live longer, the condition can grow to very bad levels. It is therefore essential to diagnose the condition early and know the treatment options available.
As earlier stated, the condition can be caused by various problems. The problems include inflammation, problems with the flexor tendon and injuries to the ligaments supporting the lower feet. The condition affects the animals used in performance sports most. Thus, it is the main factor causing lameness in horses.
Some of the horse breeds which are well known for developing the condition more often are thoroughbreds, warmbloods, and quarter horses. The problem develops in horses normally while they are within the age range of between 7 and 14 years. Other factors which expose horses to the condition are underrun heels, disproportionally small feet, broken forward/backward hoof axis and contracted heels.
To both front feet, the degree to which this condition occurs normally varies. One foot is normally affected compared to the other in most cases. This is easier to notice as it causes lameness in one foot. When the animal is negotiating very tight corners, one can easily notice the lameness in one foot. The horses which are affected seem to swap legs while going around tight circles.
Usually, the pain is perceived in the area around the heel. Normally, this causes horses to set down in the toe to heal and not the usual heel to toe way. This is normally done by the animal so as to avoid pain linked to usual landing. This slight signs may not be easily noticeable, more so for starters. Hence in the attempt to ease the condition, the horse should be taped on video and played in slow motion. This makes it easy to identify signs.
Previously, it was difficult to get the exact location of the navicular bone in horses. As a result, it was necessary to learn more concerning the disorder. Nevertheless, advancements in technology have made it easier to pinpoint the precise spot where the bone is located. Changes that cause the condition to develop are now easy to identify due to the existence of better technology.
The use of MRI scans enables improved study of the structure of horse feet. Currently, it is largely understood that a number of medical problems have impact on different parts of the anatomy of a horse. Even though a number of medical problems can be completely treated, a number of them are still hard to treat. Additionally, specific horse breeds are known to be more vulnerable to the condition.
The development of the condition is often caused by the age factor. The condition worsens as the animal ages. Since horses of today live longer, the condition can grow to very bad levels. It is therefore essential to diagnose the condition early and know the treatment options available.
As earlier stated, the condition can be caused by various problems. The problems include inflammation, problems with the flexor tendon and injuries to the ligaments supporting the lower feet. The condition affects the animals used in performance sports most. Thus, it is the main factor causing lameness in horses.
Some of the horse breeds which are well known for developing the condition more often are thoroughbreds, warmbloods, and quarter horses. The problem develops in horses normally while they are within the age range of between 7 and 14 years. Other factors which expose horses to the condition are underrun heels, disproportionally small feet, broken forward/backward hoof axis and contracted heels.
To both front feet, the degree to which this condition occurs normally varies. One foot is normally affected compared to the other in most cases. This is easier to notice as it causes lameness in one foot. When the animal is negotiating very tight corners, one can easily notice the lameness in one foot. The horses which are affected seem to swap legs while going around tight circles.
Usually, the pain is perceived in the area around the heel. Normally, this causes horses to set down in the toe to heal and not the usual heel to toe way. This is normally done by the animal so as to avoid pain linked to usual landing. This slight signs may not be easily noticeable, more so for starters. Hence in the attempt to ease the condition, the horse should be taped on video and played in slow motion. This makes it easy to identify signs.
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