Navicular Syndrome
Navicular syndrome is chronic lameness from degeneration of the navicular bone, surrounding ligaments, and the deep digital flexor tendon. It typically affects both front feet and is most common in Quarter Horses, Thoroughbreds, and Warmbloods.
Symptoms to watch for
Bilateral front-leg lameness, often shifting from one foot to the other
Short, choppy stride that worsens on hard ground
Pointing one front foot forward at rest
Stumbling, especially turning in tight circles
Heel pain on hoof tester examination
Worse on the inside leg of a circle
Symptoms develop gradually over months
Common causes
- Genetic conformation (small feet, long pasterns, low heels)
- Repetitive concussion from work on hard surfaces
- Poor or infrequent farriery causing imbalance
- Excessive weight
- Tight or contracted heels
Prevention
- Maintain regular 5–6 week farrier visits with a farrier experienced in caudal foot support
- Keep heels healthy with appropriate shoeing or barefoot trimming
- Avoid sustained work on hard or uneven surfaces
- Manage body weight to reduce loading
- Conformation-aware breeding selection
What to do
- 1
Confirm diagnosis with vet — nerve blocks and radiographs are standard.
- 2
Implement therapeutic shoeing: rolled toe, raised heels, or wedge pads as directed.
- 3
Discuss medication: NSAIDs, isoxsuprine, or bisphosphonates with your vet.
- 4
Modify exercise — keep horse moving on soft footing, avoid concussion.
- 5
Maintain a 4-week farrier cycle.
- 6
Re-radiograph annually to monitor progression.
Pick up the phone if…
Schedule a vet visit if your horse develops gradual front-end lameness, especially if both legs are affected. Early diagnosis enables conservative management to keep the horse comfortable for years.
Related topics
Catch problems early with HorseCare
Daily health logs, vital sign tracking, and AI symptom analysis — built for serious horse owners.
Download on the App StoreEducational content only. Not a substitute for veterinary advice.