Laminitis is one of the most painful and debilitating conditions affecting horses, involving inflammation of the sensitive laminae connecting the hoof wall to the underlying bone.
Laminitis is considered one of the most acutely painful conditions that can affect horses. The inflammation within the rigid hoof capsule creates intense pressure with no room for swelling - analogous to severe inflammation trapped under a fingernail, but affecting the entire foot. Horses stand on all four feet constantly, meaning there is no relief from the pain. Chronic cases involve ongoing tissue degeneration and bone remodeling. Affected horses often show the characteristic 'rocking horse' stance, leaning back to reduce pressure on the front feet. Many severe cases result in euthanasia due to unmanageable pain.