Equine Management Services, Inc.

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Laminitis (2)

By Carla Huston, BES
Laminitis is the inflammation of the sensitive laminae in the hoof. When the normal blood flow to these tissues is disturbed the cells become damaged and die, producing the inflammation. As with all inflammation, swelling occurs between the hoof wall and the sole causing the acute pain. This condition usually occurs in the forefeet, but occasionally is seen in the hind also. Ponies are especially susceptible, but any equine may develop laminitis.
Lameness is almost always present in acute cases of laminitis, with obvious pain reactions displayed when the foot is tapped with a knife handle or hammer. Often the horse or pony will stand with his hind legs placed underneath himself in an attempt to relieve the weight on the front. In more severe cases the animal is reluctant to move, and may even resist standing. Heat can often be felt in the foot with a pounding pulse present in the fetlock joint. A farrier's examination of the sole will reveal telltale separation of the laminae that occurs with the inflammation.
The causes of laminitis are widely varied. The most common is an overload of grain or lush spring grass. Laminitis can also be brought about by an excess of water, a portion of retained afterbirth or abortion in a mare, generalized toxemia, excessive weightbearing on one leg, or excessive work on hard ground. Stress can also induce an episode of laminitis. Once the animal has a case of laminitis they are more prone to future experiences, and require special maintenance from their owners.
Treatment of laminitis involves eliminating the cause and alleviating the pain. The horse or pony may need to be kept in a dry lot to avoid consumption of grass, and the scrupulous removal of all grain from the diet is necessary. Pain-relieving drugs may be administered to make the animal more comfortable. Moderate exercise is important for the blood flow within the foot, but overexercise could be extremely detrimental. A veterinarian and professional farrier may agree to fit the horse or pony with a set of heartbar shoes. These shoes follow the shape of the frog and help relieve pressure by transferring it to the frog area. They require daily maintenance and frequent resetting.
Severe laminitis can lead to a condition known as founder. This occurs when the laminae actually breaks down. The sensitive laminae interlock with the insensitive and support the coffin bone. When the bone is no longer supported it begins to rotate down, causing the sole to drop and even become convex. Ultimately the tip of the bone may protrude through the sole. This is a very serious condition and causes the animal extreme pain.