Navicular syndrome causes chronic heel pain in horses. Appropriate exercise management combined with supportive care can maintain quality of life for many affected horses.
Navicular welfare is a long-term management challenge requiring consistent attention to pain levels and workload. Horses with managed navicular syndrome can live comfortable, productive lives in appropriate work — the key is matching workload to the individual's level of comfort, not to the owner's performance goals. Signs of breakthrough pain including shortened stride, foot-pointing, and behavioral resistance must be acted on promptly. End-of-life consideration is warranted when pain cannot be adequately controlled despite maximal management.