Navicular Disease (Podotrochleosis) in Horses

When it comes to the term navicular disease or navicular syndrome, many horse owners become worried, as it is known as a very serious condition with limited treatment options. In this article, learn what navicular disease is and what the treatment involves.

What is navicular disease?

Navicular disease (or podotrochleosis) is a condition in the area of the navicular bone. The navicular bone is an area and not a specific part in the lower leg. It consists of the coffin bone, coronet bone, deep digital flexor tendon, navicular bone, bursa, and ligaments. All of these structures connect the navicular bone to the bones of the lower leg, forming the navicular bone.

When there is a problem in the navicular area, we refer to it as navicular disease. Navicular disease is caused by overloading a part of this area, which can be due to incorrect hoof balance, overreaching, improper training, unsuitable footing, or genetic factors. It is not an inflammation caused by viruses or bacteria.

Navicular disease can occur in different forms and degrees, depending on the severity of overloading and the specific structure affected. Navicular disease almost exclusively occurs in the front legs, either in one or both legs.

Symptoms of navicular disease

Because each horse reacts differently to navicular disease, there are no specific symptoms to mention. Horses often show inconsistent lameness, being lame one day and sound the next. Sometimes there is no obvious lameness at all. Horses with navicular disease may exhibit reduced performance willingness or have difficulty with tight turns. Hard surfaces or landing after a jump can also pose problems.

A veterinarian will not provide a diagnosis based solely on a clinical assessment; X-rays or scans are necessary to obtain a proper image of the area. An X-ray will evaluate and score the navicular bone, with a high score (0-4) indicating an increased risk of lameness.

Treatment of navicular disease

In the past, navicular disease was considered a career-ending condition. However, the outcome varies depending on the case and the severity of the disease. With an early diagnosis, the chances of recovery are higher. Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications are often prescribed, along with specialized shoeing. Nowadays, training modifications can also help reduce the strain on the front legs and improve the horse's gait. Consult with your veterinarian, farrier, and trainer on how to assist your horse with navicular disease.

Navicular disease cannot always be prevented, especially if there is a genetic component. However, proper loading, supportive footing, and correct leg conformation can help prevent some of the overloading.