The Final Episode in the Series

In the final episode of this educational farriery series, Marc Jerram takes a deep dive into one of the most discussed and challenging causes of chronic forelimb lameness in the horse, navicular syndrome.

This episode explores the modern understanding of navicular syndrome and explains why it is no longer viewed as a disease of the navicular bone alone, but rather as a complex condition involving the entire navicular apparatus including the deep digital flexor tendon, navicular bursa, ligaments and surrounding soft tissues within the foot.

Marc breaks down the anatomy and biomechanics of the navicular region in a practical and easy to understand format before discussing how poor hoof balance, conformation, workload and management can contribute to degeneration and chronic pain within the caudal foot.

Throughout the episode listeners will gain a detailed understanding of:

The anatomy and function of the navicular bone and surrounding structures

The early warning signs and clinical presentation of navicular syndrome

How biomechanics and hoof conformation influence disease progression

The role of long toes, underrun heels and poor breakover

The pathogenesis of navicular related degeneration

Nutritional and dietary considerations for hoof health and inflammation

Modern veterinary diagnostics including MRI and diagnostic nerve blocks

Veterinary treatment options including medications, regenerative therapies and surgery

Static and dynamic gait assessment of horses with navicular pain

Therapeutic farriery approaches including trimming strategies and corrective shoeing

The use of raised heels, egg bar shoes, Memphis bar shoes, pads and wedge systems

Barefoot rehabilitation and the use of hoof boots in selected cases

Long term management, prognosis and quality of life considerations

This episode is designed for farriers, veterinary professionals, equine students and horse owners wanting a clearer understanding of one of the most important conditions affecting equine soundness and performance.

Thank you for following this podcast series and supporting The Hoofcare Companion throughout its educational journey. We hope these episodes have helped expand your knowledge, improve your practical understanding and encourage continued discussion surrounding evidence based hoof care and farriery.

If you have enjoyed the series, please follow, rate and share the podcast to help support future educational content.

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For an eBook version visit here:

The Hoofcare Companion (eBook Edition) eBook : Jerram, Marc: Amazon.co.uk: Books