Navicular Pain Occurs In Horses And Humans
by Young Lindsay
Foot pain can be a real problem, whether it's in a horse or a human. Life is much more pleasant when movement does not cause discomfort or suffering. <A href="http://www.naviculardisease.com">Navicular pain</A> can incapacitate a horse. For humans, it is often less serious but can mean giving up accustomed activities.
Horse owners are familiar with and terrified of the word 'navicular'. It's associated with a ailment called 'founder', which happens to horses who eat too much rich grass or grain. It begins as inflammation in the digestive tract and can cause soreness in the front feet. In severe cases, the bone that gives the disease it's name can 'rotate' or get out of proper alignment. This puts pressure on the inner sole of the foot and is extremely painful.
There is treatment for this equine problem. Usually stall rest and then a 'dry' or grass-free paddock are recommended, and medications include painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs. Vets often recommend a weight-loss program as well. The afflicted horse will be more sensitive to 'grass founder' for the rest of it's life.
If the horse recovers, it may be returned to light work. If lameness persists, the useful life of the horse will be over if it's not suitable for breeding. Severe cases will leave the horse in pain, so many owners choose to have such animals 'put down' or euthanized. Because horses are grazing herd animals, solitary confinement in a stall or dry lot is not a normal life.
People also have a navicular bone, located in the middle of the foot, which can become painful. Basketball or soccer players who run, stop, and turn repeatedly often develop soreness in the mid-foot area. The bone may fracture under the stress or because of distortion caused by a sprained tendon.
The condition shows up first as a minor, nagging soreness in the foot, which worsens withe exercise and is relieved by rest. A cast and crutches may be prescribes if a fracture has occurred. Most people recover from the damage they've done to their foot.
In extreme cases, surgery may be indicated. This can also help prevent arthritic complications that may develop as time goes on. X-rays are needed to assess the extent of the damage. For some who have an extra bone in their foot, called an 'accessory navicular', the problem may be caused by relatively minor twisting or strain, or even by ill-fitting shoes.
Fortunately for people, their usefulness is not centered in their feet, as a horse's often is. Their future won't include euthanasia for this lameness. However, both people and horses may find themselves slightly less durable than before the injury. Horses are often shod with special shoes to protect the inner foot and restrict flexing of the hoof wall. People may find relief with arch support and special shoes. Treatments suggested by physical therapists can include ultrasound, massage, and immobilization for a period of healing.
To review facts on <a href="http://www.naviculardisease.com">navicular pain</a> and its treatment, let us guide you to the right direction now. Log on to the following home page to discover more on http://www.naviculardisease.com.
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New Unique Article!
Title: Navicular Pain Occurs In Horses And Humans
Author: Young Lindsay
Email: nathanwebster335@live.com
Keywords: medicine, health, treatment, healthy
Word Count: 492
Category: Medicine
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