Basics On Navicular Syndrome In Horses
by Enid Hinton
People who work with or own horses may be familiar with the possible health problems that can arise in these animals. Among them is navicular syndrome or disease. This refers to a syndrome related to soundness issues in these animals. It is commonly defined as the degeneration or inflammation of the navicular bone and surrounding tissues. <A href="http://www.naviculardisease.com">Navicular syndrome in horses</A> can lead to other significant problems, including lameness that leaves the animal disabled.
In understanding what this syndrome entails, one must understand what this area consists of. This bone is located behind the coffin bone and underneath the small pastern. This navicular bone has several ligaments around it that offers it support.
No single cause has been associated with this syndrome, although there are plenty of theories about what contributes to it. Two commonly held beliefs for the cause: tension and compression. Compression theories suggest that the continual compression in this region can lead to degeneration of fundamental cartilage. This eventually leads to a great reduction in the amount of shock absorbency and spring in the feet. It could also cause brittleness and lead to major friction between bones because of absence of cartilage.
Another potential cause for this is tension that is placed on the ligaments that are around the navicular bone. Some say that the degenerative process starts with the added tension placed on ligaments, which results in straining and inflammation. This can lead to decrease of blood flow to and from the bone.
If the blood flow is held back, pressure may build inside the bone. When there is this extra pressure and no blood, this bone may begin to absorb mineral in its center, which is cause for concern. Another issues associated with tension is the problem of exostoses, or the ligaments attaching to this bone. Sometimes the tension becomes so much that the ligaments start to tear.
Several things might contribute to this problem. Conformation, shoeing, work and body weight are all known to worsen problems in this area. There are signs to be on the look out with this disorder. Heel pain is most common. Lameness might also start up as something mild that progress to a more serious and even disabling degree. This can be due to the inflammation and strain on the ligaments that support the navicular bone, a reduction in blood flow and the increase of pressure in the hoof. Damage to the navicular bursa and the DDF tendon, as well as erosion of cartilage, may lead to the same outcome.
Horses affected by this might have tiptoe gait. That is, they may try walking on the toes to avoid heel pain. Frequent stumbling may also be observed. Lameness might switch between legs and be inconsistent. If the problem persists without attention, the feet might change shape, usually becoming more narrow and upright.
Medication, trimming, hoof care, exercise and surgery are potential options for care. Usually more than one of these solutions is used. Every case is different and so it is essential that animals be in the care of knowledgeable animal doctors. Some changes that are caused by this condition may be irreversible. Still, it should be a priority to give the animal relief from pain and halt the progression of the syndrome.
Reading the published posts will give you a better idea about <a href="http://www.naviculardisease.com">navicular syndrome in horses</a>. To know more, you can reach our website right away by clicking here http://www.naviculardisease.com.
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New Unique Article!
Title: Basics On Navicular Syndrome In Horses
Author: Enid Hinton
Email: nathanwebster335@live.com
Keywords: medicine, health, treatment, healthy
Word Count: 550
Category: Medicine
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