Navicular Syndrome

Posted by Brookby Herbs, 23 Dec, 2010

Vitamins/Supplements, Horse Health

Navicular Syndrome is a disease affecting the navicular bone and the surrounding tissues in the heel. It usually affects the two front feet. This condition seems to be on the increase these days or possibly it is just being more widely recognised.

The horse may start off showing signs of intermittent lameness or stumble a lot when trotting. It can be diagnosed with x-rays.

Foot problems account for 90% of all lameness and it is extremely important to take good care of your horse's feet. Navicular Syndrome can be caused by poor shoeing and weak circulation, correction of both is critical to the improvement of this condition.

It can be very distressing for owners when their horse is diagnosed with navicular because it is often given little hope of recovery. If your horse is diagnosed with navicular, it will probably be treated with anti-inflammatories as well as pain killers and drugs which will dilate the blood vessels in order to provide better blood supply to the affected area.

It is also critical to have the feet trimmed properly and possibly corrective shoeing to improve the shape of the foot.

Herbs that can be of benefit will work by helping the circulation and by strengthening and dilating the blood vessels. Hawthorn and buckwheat are very effective herbs for this condition as they strengthen the vessels without affecting blood pressure. Buckwheat is rich in magnesium, calcium, potassium and trace elements.

Devil's Claw will help reduce inflammation and pain without giving a false impression to the horse so he won't over exert himself. Cider vinegar is also very good to take twice a day for general cleansing. It is also important to keep your horse moving which increases circulation and creates good blood flow to the foot. Brookby Herbs' Free Mover Plus combines the healing properties of both Devil's Claw and Cider Vinegar in one product.

As with all herbal remedies concentrating on the whole body will allow your horse to maintain an improved standard of health.

---

More products by this brand