askHELTIE HELTIEhorse® Navicular Disease: What Is It and How Can You Support Your Horse?

Navicular Disease: What Is It and How Can You Support Your Horse?

Navicular disease is a condition that worries many horse owners. It often causes lameness and reduced performance, sometimes temporarily, sometimes long-term. What exactly is navicular disease, and how can you reduce the risk as much as possible?

Hooves

Clove

Silicon

Diseases

19 December '25 • 2 min reading time

Every horse has a navicular mechanism in each hoof. This is not a single bone, but a complex system located in and just above the hoof. It functions like a pulley, distributing the forces placed on the tendons as the deep digital flexor tendon glides over a structure—similar to a pulley system on a boat or crane.

What is navicular disease?

The navicular apparatus consists of the coffin bone, pastern bone, deep digital flexor tendon, and the back of the navicular bone. A bursa and several supporting ligaments are also part of this system. Navicular disease refers to inflammation in one or more of these structures and is therefore a collective term.

Common causes include overloading, incorrect hoof conformation, and training on unsuitable or uneven surfaces. A misstep or twisting of the hoof or lower limb can also trigger the condition.

Symptoms of navicular disease

Horses with navicular issues are often lame in both front legs, though one-sided lameness can occur. Hind limb involvement is less common. Lameness may fluctuate from day to day. Tight turns and hard surfaces are often difficult. Diagnosis usually requires X-rays or ultrasound, and veterinarians may use nerve blocks to pinpoint the exact location of pain.

Treating navicular disease

Early treatment is essential to prevent progression. A veterinarian may prescribe pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication, administered orally or via injection. Proper hoof care is equally important—working with a skilled farrier or trimmer to achieve optimal hoof balance. In some cases, corrective shoeing may be recommended.

Preventing navicular disease

Prevention is key, though some horses may have a genetic predisposition. Regular, professional hoof care is fundamental. Avoid excessive training on hard or uneven ground, especially if the horse is not conditioned for it. Vary training routines, manage workload carefully, and include sufficient recovery days.

Support through supplements

Certain supplements can help maintain a healthy navicular mechanism. Adequate mineral intake is essential for the development of strong hooves, tendons, and ligaments. Silicon, particularly in liquid form, plays an important role in supporting hooves, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and bones. Hoof health can also be supported externally with a frog gel, while clove extract may help support the horse’s overall resistance.

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