When it comes to treating navicular syndrome in horses, horseshoes—especially specialized ones like egg bar shoes and wedge pads—are often the go-to solution. However, a recent study published in Animals (Basel) suggests these shoes might have unintended consequences on hoof health by potentially impairing blood circulation and metabolism in the hoof’s distal limb.
Key Findings:
- Decreased Hoof Temperatures
- Thermographic imaging revealed significant temperature drops in hooves after shoeing.
- With egg bar shoes, the temperature decreased on the palmar (back) aspect of the hoof.
- With wedge pads, temperatures dropped in both the dorsal (front) and palmar (back) views.
- Implications for Blood Flow and Metabolism
- Reduced temperatures in thermographic scans indicate potential decreases in blood circulation and metabolic activity.
- This could be due to the compression of laminar vessels or restricted hoof mechanism caused by the shoes.
- Context of Navicular Syndrome Treatment
- Wedge pads are designed to reduce navicular apparatus load by increasing the hoof angle, while egg bar shoes aim to shift weight palmarly and distribute it across a larger sole surface.
- However, these benefits might come at the cost of compromised circulation in the hoof’s soft tissues.
Why This Matters:
Healthy hoof circulation is crucial for overall hoof health and recovery from conditions like navicular syndrome. Impaired blood flow could exacerbate issues, counteracting the therapeutic intent of these specialized shoes.
The Role of Thermography:
Thermography, a non-invasive diagnostic tool, measures surface temperatures to infer metabolic activity and blood supply. While the study cautions against making definitive conclusions based solely on thermography, the findings raise important questions about the long-term effects of shoeing on hoof health.
Takeaway for Horse Owners and Care Providers:
While horseshoes like wedge pads and egg bar shoes can provide immediate structural support for horses with navicular syndrome, their potential to disrupt hoof circulation warrants careful consideration. Exploring alternative therapies, regular monitoring of hoof health, and consulting with barefoot specialists or farriers skilled in corrective trimming may offer holistic solutions.
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