Navicular syndrome is a complex and often progressive cause of forelimb lameness in horses requiring careful diagnosis and long-term management to preserve quality of life.
Navicular syndrome causes persistent forelimb pain that progresses without management. Affected horses show classic short-striding gait and pronounced lameness on hard ground, representing continuous discomfort during movement. The chronic nature of the condition means horses may live with pain for years before diagnosis, as owners attribute subtle lameness to shoeing needs or management. With accurate diagnosis and targeted management including appropriate shoeing, medication and exercise modification, many horses can maintain good welfare and continued work. Progressive cases that cannot be managed represent a challenging end-of-life decision for owners and vets.