Understanding Ringbone in Horses- Causes & Treatment

by John
Ringbone in Horses

Ringbone is a degenerative disease of the lower limbs of horses characterized by bony growth surrounding affected joints, particularly the pastern or coffin joints. There are two kinds of ringbone: low ringbone, which involves the coffin joint, and high ringbone, which affects the pastern joint. Horses suffering from this ailment may experience severe discomfort and lameness. Let’s look at the causes and treatments of this disease, which will help in the prevention and progression of the disease once it occurs.

Let’s explore the mysteries of Brabant Horse, a classic Belgian Horse breed.

What Causes Ringbone in Horses?

legs of the horse showing Ringbone disease

horserookie.com

There are several causes of ringbone in horses. However, a few major causes are as follows.

  • The leading cause of ringbone in horses is trauma or repetitive stress to the soft tissue structures around the pastern bone and the joint surfaces.
  • Additional factors include poor conformation, such as erect pasterns, excessive strain from hard work, or wrong hoof clipping.
  • Inflammation within the affected joints can lead to the formation of bony growth, which ultimately causes pain and restricts movement.

Signs and symptoms

The symptoms of ringbone differ Depending on the condition’s location and severity; typical signs consist of:

  • Lameness that becomes worse with mobility.
  • Heat and swelling around the coffin or pastern joints.
  • Impacted limb stiffness and decreased flexibility.
  • Visible bony growth or expansion surrounding the joints.
  • In extreme circumstances, the horse could show severe discomfort and resist putting weight on the injured limb.

High and Low Ringbones in Horses

high and low ringbone depiction on horse leg

mcdowellsherbal.com

High ringbone in horses affects the pastern joint, which is located between the long and short pastern bones. This condition is frequently simpler to diagnose because of the apparent swelling and deformity surrounding the pastern joint. In contrast, a low ringbone in horses affects the coffin joint, which is lower in the foot and more challenging to identify and cure.

False Ringbone in Horses

Inflammation and swelling of the soft tissue surrounding the pastern or coffin joints without bony growth is known as “false ringbone” in horses. Although this illness lacks the typical bone growth apparent on radiographs, it resembles the symptoms of a real ringbone.

Treatment of Ringbone

tablets injections vials table tablets injections vials

dreamstime.com

Treating ringbone in Horses aims to control pain, lower inflammation, and postpone the disease’s progression. The following are a few possible treatments: options.

Anti-inflammatory medications

NSAIDs, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, help lessen discomfort and inflammation in affected joints.

Joint supplements

Supplements with hyaluronic acid, glucosamine, and chondroitin sulfate can help maintain healthy joints and slow the progression of ringbone in horses.

Joint injections

Injecting corticosteroids directly into the affected joints can relieve significant pain and inflammation. Injections of hyaluronic acid may help lower friction and increase joint lubrication.

Physical treatment

Physical therapy and controlled exercise can help keep joints flexible and reduce stiffness.

Natural treatment for ringbone in horses

A few horse owners choose natural remedies, such as herbal supplements and acupuncture, to manage symptoms and promote healing.

Surgical options

Surgery can be necessary if the situation is serious. Arthrodesis, a technique that involves fusing the afflicted joints, can lessen discomfort by preventing mobility in the fused joints.

Preventive Measures and Management

Although there is no “cure for ringbone in horses,” proactive treatment can lessen the effects of the illness. The prevention of ringbone depends on a balanced workload, a healthy diet, and regular hoof care. Maintaining the horse’s quality of life and treating the condition requires early discovery and treatment.

Conclusion

Understanding the ringbone in horses is essential to managing and treating them effectively. By understanding the symptoms and the differences between high and low ringbone in horses, horse owners, and veterinarians may utilize the proper treatment options to lessen pain and enhance joint function. Even though it is a difficult sickness, but horses can still lead active, comfortable lives if they receive the right care and treatment in the right time frame.

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