What is navicular in horses?

The navicular bone is a small, boat-shaped bone located in the heel region of a horse's foot. It acts as a pulley for the deep digital flexor tendon, which is a crucial structure for the horse's ability to move and carry weight.

Navicular disease, also known as navicular syndrome or palmar foot pain, is a common cause of lameness in horses. It is a degenerative condition that affects the navicular bone, as well as the surrounding ligaments and tendons. The exact cause of navicular disease is still not fully understood, but it is believed to be a combination of genetics, conformation, hoof shape, and repetitive strain on the foot.

Symptoms of navicular disease include lameness, especially when turning or on hard surfaces, short strides, pointing of the affected foot, and sensitivity to hoof testers applied to the heel region. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough lameness exam, nerve blocks, and radiographs (x-rays) of the foot.

Treatment for navicular disease can vary depending on the severity of the condition, but may include corrective trimming and shoeing, anti-inflammatory medications, joint supplements, and in some cases, surgical intervention. In severe cases, the horse may become unsound for riding or require retirement from athletic activities. Prognosis can also vary depending on the individual horse and the stage of the disease at the time of diagnosis.