Navicular disease causes chronic forelimb lameness in horses. Understanding the condition and its management options helps reduce long-term suffering.
Navicular disease causes chronic, often bilateral forelimb pain that significantly impacts quality of life and workability. Affected horses show a characteristic shortened stride, pointing of the affected limb when resting, and toe-first landing to avoid pressure on the heel area. The pain can range from mild and intermittent to constant and severe. Modern management approaches, including corrective farriery, anti-inflammatory medication, and targeted physiotherapy, have improved outcomes considerably compared to older treatment paradigms. The welfare decision around when continued work is inappropriate, when rest with pain management suffices, and when euthanasia is the kindest option requires regular reassessment by veterinarians, farriers, and informed owners working collaboratively.