Companion Animals

Horse Navicular Syndrome Welfare

Navicular syndrome causes chronic forelimb pain in horses and is a leading cause of retirement, with management options including shoeing modifications, medication, and surgery providing welfare improvements.

Key Facts

Navicular syndrome affects the navicular bone, deep digital flexor tendon, and bursa
Quarter horses and warmbloods have breed predispositions to navicular disease
Corrective shoeing including egg-bar shoes redistributes load and reduces pain
Bisphosphonate medications reduce bone resorption and improve comfort significantly
Neurectomy (nerve cutting) removes pain sensation but has welfare considerations

Welfare Considerations

Navicular syndrome causes chronic pain that without management leads to progressive deterioration. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment extends comfortable working life.

What You Can Do

Seek specialist veterinary assessment for persistent forelimb lameness in horses
Consult a qualified farrier about corrective shoeing options
Discuss bisphosphonate treatment with your vet for confirmed navicular disease
Monitor welfare carefully if neurectomy is performed, as the horse cannot feel foot pain