Horse Navicular Disease Management

Navicular disease (podotrochlear syndrome) is a common cause of chronic forelimb lameness in horses, requiring careful management to maintain quality of life.

Key Facts

Navicular disease involves degeneration of the navicular bone and surrounding structures
Quarter Horses and Warmbloods are among the most commonly affected breeds
Corrective shoeing is fundamental to managing navicular syndrome
NSAID therapy (phenylbutazone) reduces pain and inflammation
Bisphosphonates have emerged as disease-modifying treatments
Deep digital flexor tenotomy may be used in severe non-responsive cases
MRI provides the most detailed imaging of navicular structures
Many affected horses can be managed successfully and continue working at lower levels

Welfare Considerations

Navicular disease causes persistent, often bilateral forelimb pain that significantly impairs quality of life. Horses with inadequately managed navicular syndrome walk carefully and reluctantly, showing behavioral signs of chronic pain including reluctance to work and reduced social engagement. The progressive nature of the condition means that what works initially may need adjustment over time. Horses deserve proactive pain management rather than minimal intervention.

What You Can Do

Work with a farrier experienced in corrective shoeing for navicular cases
Establish regular monitoring schedules for horses with navicular disease
Ask your vet about bisphosphonate therapy as a disease-modifying option
Manage weight and workload to reduce mechanical stress on affected horses
Provide pain-free turnout time appropriate to each horse's condition