vendredi 23 janvier 2015

A Guide To Navicular Disease In Horses

By Janine Hughes


The navicular bone is located within the hoof of a horse and consists of soft tissue including ligaments. Navicular disease in horses occurs when structural problems impact this bone and its surrounding supports cause a number of problems in operation. The lame pain that is caused by this disorder can be treated and managed with the correct approach to ensure that healthy heel function is facilitated.

Due to the complexity of structures located in the navicular region, it requires a complete assessment to determine whether the particular disorder is present. An examination can assist in detecting the presence of inflammation, injuries, and abnormalities with the bone for the creation of a management and rehabilitation program. It is one of the most commonly noted abnormalities that is recognized in racing and high performance equines.

Most horses that present with the condition will no longer be able to walk normally because of limited function and poor structures. A horse may experience considerable lameness in the affected leg that leads to poor movement and restrictions in the means of moving around corners. With the recommendations provided by a professional, it is possible to determine whether the condition is present and causing physical dysfunction.

Where a horse suffers from navicular disease, it will need to be assessed with the assistance provided by an experienced and professional evaluation. The doctor may request the performance of digital imaging to detect the navicular bone and whether it is affected by injury or abnormal physical structures. The equine must be able to rest the affected limbs and should not include high performance requirements.

Most horses that sustain injuries in the foreleg or undergo physical debilitation may be at increased risk of developing this condition. Sustaining injuries such as a bone fracture, cysts, bone calcification, and poor tendon formation can lead to exacerbated symptoms and poor operation. The completion of assessments can aid in identifying the disease and the severity of symptoms.

Depending on the severity of damage that a horse is suffering from, a vet may initiate conservative treatment. One of the most commonly applied techniques involves shoeing where the doctor will create a supportive structure to realign the affected bones and ligaments. This method is most beneficial for animals that are suffering from abnormalities including difficulties in the ability to walk normally.

For the pain and discomfort associated with the disorder, medication may be advised to keep equines in a relaxed and comfortable state. For healing to take place, a large amount of tension must be alleviated with fitted and supportive devices. Methods that are put in place with little improvement will lead to surgical correction for recovery.

Where the nerve is affected by the abnormality of the navicular bone, the vet may advise on surgery to relieve the compression of the nerve and to alleviate painful symptoms. When the health of the nerve is improved, it can assist animals in experiencing a reduction in complicated operation and an improvement in mobility. With reliance on the correct therapeutic approach, it can assist a large number of equines in regaining mobility and alleviating the severe symptoms that are associated with the condition.




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