Performance Horse Injuries

Ms. Prospectus veterinary examination report May 2006
The horse was 3/5 lame on the left front limb. Examination of the left front foot demonstrated mild sensitivity on the lateral heel. The foot was anesthetized. No improvement on the lameness was obtained after blocking the foot. Radiographs of the left front carpus revealed significant lysis of the third carpal bone on the radio-carpal articular facet of the third carpal bone. To confirm this finding as the source of the lameness we can block the intercarpal joint or perform a bone scan. Dr. Jorge Gomez, DVM

Bone density has a significant effect upon the soundness of the horse. A bone that is strong and resilient will provide a good foundation for the tendons and ligaments to attach themselves. In addition, healthy equine bone, will endure the stresses of continued impact for longer periods of time.

This alone serves to reduce injury and mishap. The horse who is the subject of this particular study, was put on a liquid silicon supplement, Siliforce Horses, and improved significantly in eight weeks. Her energy level improved, and she was able to go back into serious training. Her radiographs show the correlation between the less dense bone and her apparent lameness, and the denser, healthier bone associated with soundness. Her predisposition toward injury would remain an area of concern because of her conformation. She is a compact horse with a narrow left foot and a crooked left knee.