Horse Hoof Diseases

The Impact of Navicular Bone Shape and Fragments in Horses

Navicular disease is not always straightforward for veterinarians to diagnose and treat, but new study findings that focus on the shape of the navicular bone (NB) and fragments found near it could help veterinarians better understand this disease in horses.

"The significance of distal border fragments of the navicular bone is not well understood," the researchers noted in the study. "There are also no objective data about changes in thickness and proximal (upper) and distal (lower) extension of the palmar cortex (rear-facing outer layer) of the navicular bone."

A recent retrospective study performed by Marianna Biggi, DVM, PhD, and Sue Dyson VetMB, PhD, at the Centre for Equine Studies at The Animal Health Trust, in Suffolk, England, examined the significance of fragments along the lower border of the NB, as well as the differences in thickness of the palmar cortex of the NB in 55 sound horses and 377 lame horses. The team hoped to better understand the distribution of distal border fragments and their association with radiological abnormalities of the NB, and to evaluate differences in the shape of the navicular bone in sound and lame horses and horses.

The sound horses used in the study had all undergone a prepurchase examination including radiographs of their front feet. The lame horses had foot-related pain and had undergone radiographic examination of at least one foot between January 2005 and December 2009. Horses used in the study were of varying breeds, disciplines, and genders. All radiographs were analyzed to determine the thickness of the palmar cortex and to measure upper or lower extensions of the palmar cortex.

Upon reviewing their findings, the researchers noted:

Learn how to recognize lameness and its impact in the comprehensive and invaluable DVD Lameness in the Horse

The authors concluded that there were significant differences in NB shape between the two groups of horses and that "fragments were also associated with primary navicular pathology, suggesting distal border fragments may be a part of navicular disease."

The team added that the evaluation of changes in shape of the navicular bone could also be important for researchers as they further their recognition and understanding of pathological (anatomic and physiological deviations from the normal state) abnormalities of the bone.

What is hoof and mouth disease? | Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease ...

Ed animal, you’re not gonna get it, unless you manage to find an infected animal and eat it, which is pretty much not gonna happen.Same as foot and mouth, humans can catch it but very unlikely. They closed down Britain’s farmland when there was an out-brake, a few years back.

Give your answer to this question below!

Thanks theresa_holst for the tip.

There are numerous factors involved in owning a horse. Your horse will depend on you for all its needs and you have to make sure you are fulfilling them all. While most people understand the basics involved such as providing a proper shelter, food and exercise, there are other things your horse will need that you should be aware of.

Horses cannot be kept in a stable all day; they need daily exercise and some time out as well. Horses kept indoors all day are prone to developing psychological problems and destructive vices such as cribbing, weaving, wall kicking, eating feces and tail chewing. Allowing your horse some free time in a pasture will help him to let off steam. By doing so he is less likely to become sour or nappy. Letting your horse romp and play also reduces the likelihood of him acting up while you’re on his back!

Proper management ensures a happy and healthy horse. For your horse to be both mentally and physically healthy you must take into consideration many often hard to notice aspects of being a responsible horse owner.

]]>

Make sure you provide your horse with the best quality feed and hay you can afford. Supplements are also important and your vet should be able to advise you what to add to your horse’s diet. Your horse’s dietary needs will change throughout his life so make sure you research what your horse’s particular needs are. If your horse is boarded at a professional facility the stable owner or manager will be able to advise you.

Clean, hygienic bedding is another thing your horse will need, just like you wouldn’t want to stand around in your own filth you shouldn’t expect your horse to. A dirty stable will result in respiratory and problems in your horse, so make sure your horse’s stable is cleaned on a daily basis.

Your horse’s teeth will need to be examined on a regular basis especially as he gets older. Horses’ teeth become worn with time and problems can develop and cause considerable pain resulting in the horse being unable to eat or tolerate having a bit in his mouth.

Horse Owner's Veterinary Handbook

Horse Diseases, Causes Symptoms and Treatment

Knack Leg and Hoof Care for Horses, A Complete Illustrated Guide

Understanding equine hoof care, your guide to horse health care and management

The clinical diagnosis of lameness in the horse