Very Common
Less Common
OTHER DIAGNOSES CONSIDERED
Other conditions or ailments that might also need to be ruled out by a vet.
Diagnosis
Conditions or ailments that are the cause of a problem that you see - your observation.
Your vet may diagnose
Pedal Osteitis, Marginal Fractures Coffin Bone
Summary
This is a poorly defined syndrome that is currently being redefined, especially with the increased use of MRI for hoof lameness diagnosis. The term suggests inflammation of the pedal or coffin bone.
Historically, the diagnosis has referred to changes seen on radiographs, of bone loss and small fractures around the rim of the bone. We do see these changes in the bone associated with recurrent bruising and conformation abnormalities of the hoof, especially club foot. It is also seen in horses with laminitis and rotation of the coffin bone.
So this is really more a sign of recurrent trauma to the coffin bone than a true inflammatory condition of the bone. The signs associated with this condition are seen more frequently in the front limbs than hind limbs. Lameness is usually mild to moderate and present in both front limbs. In its mildest form, horses can completely recover rapidly. At the opposite extreme are horses that are persistently or recurrently lame.
Historically, the diagnosis has referred to changes seen on radiographs, of bone loss and small fractures around the rim of the bone. We do see these changes in the bone associated with recurrent bruising and conformation abnormalities of the hoof, especially club foot. It is also seen in horses with laminitis and rotation of the coffin bone.
So this is really more a sign of recurrent trauma to the coffin bone than a true inflammatory condition of the bone. The signs associated with this condition are seen more frequently in the front limbs than hind limbs. Lameness is usually mild to moderate and present in both front limbs. In its mildest form, horses can completely recover rapidly. At the opposite extreme are horses that are persistently or recurrently lame.
my vet's role
Diagnostics Used
These are tests that might be helpful to make this diagnosis or further characterize the condition.
Treatments May Include
These treatments might be used to help resolve or improve this condition.
PROGNOSIS AND RELEVANT FACTORS
Good if the mechanical factors that contribute to it are managed. Also depends on the underlying conditions that led to the radiographic changes noted in the bone.my role
I might observe
You might make these observations when a horse has this condition.
Very Common
Less Common
Skills I Might Need
I might need these skills if my horse has this diagnosis.
Questions To Ask Your Vet:
- What is the latest research on this syndrome?
Prevention
Choose horses with good hoof conformation. Good hoof care (with protection of soles when necessary), depending upon use. Do not allow recurrent bruising and foot soreness without treating it.
Treat underlying disorders like laminitis, and protect the coffin bone with shoeing to prevent recurrent damage.
further reading & resources
Outside Resources
CREDIBLE EQUINE HEALTH INFORMATION ON THE INTERNET
