That means it affects both front legs, rather than appearing in only one. Factors that contribute to navicular syndrome are preferentially breeding for large body mass and small feet, poor conformation, and poor or inappropriate shoeing practices that lead to a broken hoof-pastern axis, long toes, and underslung heels.
Many lamenesses induce obvious signs, such as head nodding or limping.
Because navicular syndrome does not induce head bobbing initially, the disease often progresses to its chronic stage before it is caught. With navicular syndrome, the horse may stand with one or both feet planted slightly more forward than neutral to relieve pressure. During the examination, Dr. Allen asks the owner questions to complete a case history. The physical examination involves applying pressure to the hoof with hoof-testers. Another step in diagnosing navicular syndrome is to watch the horse in motion.