Foot pain can be a real problem, whether it's in a horse or a human. Life is much more pleasant when movement does not cause discomfort or suffering. Navicular pain can incapacitate a horse. For humans, it is often less serious but can mean giving up accustomed activities.
Problems with lameness are serious in a horse, whose usefulness is generally associated with soundness. Foundering is a condition resulting from over-eating of green grass or grain, although it can also be a result of extensive work over hard surfaces. The condition begins with inflammation in the digestive system but affects the front feet. Intense pain is the first symptom. Later on, the navicular bone in the foot can rotate, or shift position, leaving permanent damage.
Also called 'founder', this condition can be treated. Stall rest and anti-inflammatory drugs can ease the pain. Extended time in a dry lot, or grass-free area, can sometimes restore soundness, although it does not reverse damage to the structure of the inner foot. If horses are over-weight, the vet may prescribe thyroid medication and restrictions on feed and forage. Contracting this disorder makes horses more vulnerable to repeated attacks in future.
In minor cases, lameness will eventually disappear and the horse can be returned to light work. Sometimes the condition affects one front foot and the horse will support its weight on the other, which causes additional problems. In many cases, vets recommend that a horse in pain and with no useful future be 'put down' or euthanized. If this sounds harsh, remember that horses are grazing animals and confining them to a barn or dry paddock does not give them a normal life.
People experience troubles with this bone, too. Athletes who play fast, shifting games like basketball and soccer are particularly vulnerable. The problem is caused by concussion, over-flexing of the foot, or sprains.
What may start as soreness that eases after a period of rest may soon become a chronic ache. X-rays are needed to assess how much damage has occurred. Conventional treatment often starts with the lower leg and foot being immobilized in a cast to speed recovery. Most cases recover without further treatment, and routine painkillers help with the pain.
In extreme cases, surgery may be indicated. This can also help prevent arthritic complications that may develop as time goes on. X-rays are needed to assess the extent of the damage. For some who have an extra bone in their foot, called an 'accessory navicular', the problem may be caused by relatively minor twisting or strain, or even by ill-fitting shoes.
Although a horse's usefulness may depend on soundness, this is not the case for people. People have other ways of getting around. However, sore feet definitely take the fun out of living. Initial treatment can be followed by physical therapy or by massage, ultrasound treatments, and a recommendation for arch supports and special shoes.
Problems with lameness are serious in a horse, whose usefulness is generally associated with soundness. Foundering is a condition resulting from over-eating of green grass or grain, although it can also be a result of extensive work over hard surfaces. The condition begins with inflammation in the digestive system but affects the front feet. Intense pain is the first symptom. Later on, the navicular bone in the foot can rotate, or shift position, leaving permanent damage.
Also called 'founder', this condition can be treated. Stall rest and anti-inflammatory drugs can ease the pain. Extended time in a dry lot, or grass-free area, can sometimes restore soundness, although it does not reverse damage to the structure of the inner foot. If horses are over-weight, the vet may prescribe thyroid medication and restrictions on feed and forage. Contracting this disorder makes horses more vulnerable to repeated attacks in future.
In minor cases, lameness will eventually disappear and the horse can be returned to light work. Sometimes the condition affects one front foot and the horse will support its weight on the other, which causes additional problems. In many cases, vets recommend that a horse in pain and with no useful future be 'put down' or euthanized. If this sounds harsh, remember that horses are grazing animals and confining them to a barn or dry paddock does not give them a normal life.
People experience troubles with this bone, too. Athletes who play fast, shifting games like basketball and soccer are particularly vulnerable. The problem is caused by concussion, over-flexing of the foot, or sprains.
What may start as soreness that eases after a period of rest may soon become a chronic ache. X-rays are needed to assess how much damage has occurred. Conventional treatment often starts with the lower leg and foot being immobilized in a cast to speed recovery. Most cases recover without further treatment, and routine painkillers help with the pain.
In extreme cases, surgery may be indicated. This can also help prevent arthritic complications that may develop as time goes on. X-rays are needed to assess the extent of the damage. For some who have an extra bone in their foot, called an 'accessory navicular', the problem may be caused by relatively minor twisting or strain, or even by ill-fitting shoes.
Although a horse's usefulness may depend on soundness, this is not the case for people. People have other ways of getting around. However, sore feet definitely take the fun out of living. Initial treatment can be followed by physical therapy or by massage, ultrasound treatments, and a recommendation for arch supports and special shoes.
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