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Home > Articles > Is There Hope for Severe Sidebone?
Is There Hope for Severe Sidebone?
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Q: "Dear Martha, after many unsuccessful trim jobs by various farriers with various
opinions on our mare's lameness in the left front, we finally had her x-rayed...only
to be told by our vet that this was the worst case of sidebone he had ever seen,
and that there was no hope to get and keep her 'comfortable' for the remainder of
her natural life. I cannot accept this. I hope you can tell me that there is a way
for her through your expertise and trimming method. For now I keep her on bute, and
buteless bute [bl solution] to help with pain until I can find her help. I would
VERY much appreciate a response for my mares sake. Thank you, Patti."
A: "Dear Patti,
Sorry to hear of you and your mare's misfortune. It is very frustrating to find
that the very elements we have been led to believe are the best of care, especially
regular horseshoeing and box stalls - frequently result in irreparable damage to our
invaluable companions. Fortunately, there is hope, but the outcome will depend on
your willingness to follow through with the rehabilitation protocol and your
understanding of the horse's true nature.
"As a herbivorous prey animal, the horse naturally thrives in an open herd
environment that allows freedom of movement and constant foraging. This is the
opposite of traditional horskeeping practices that are based on human convenience
and assumptions. Much of your horse's recovery will depend on your ability to provide
for her natural needs, especially the need to to move continuously.
"Can horses really recover from massive calcium deposits, once they've formed,
and have been present for a long period of time? Yes! I have testimonials available
from folks who have rehabbed their horses. It has taken them several years, and firm
commitment. It requires faith in the healing ability of the horse, and total regard
for its needs. Since the deposits must break down and migrate via blood flow, abscesses
must be expected. It should even be encouraged by daily hoof soaking and walking, even
when abscessing and subsequent lameness is occouring. Of course, circulation-inhibiting
horseshoes are not an option. Proper hoof form must be restored through physiologically
correct trimming and movement, which is what forms healthy functional hooves in the first
place.
"The pain is best controlled by substances such as arnica montana, devil's claw,
and other preparations that don't interfere with circulation and have the negative side
effects that Bute has, and by providing comfort through proper trimming. Contact a
qualified natural hoof care provider to assist you, educate yourself on the principles
of natural horse care, and the best of luck to you and your mare!"
~ Martha Olivo
United Horsemanship President
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