She was slightly overweight, which our vet believes may have been the cause of the laminitis. She has been put on a diet. I use her for trail riding, and usually ride 5 to 6 days a week. It has a hereditary predisposition which is thought to be related to conformation. The hind limbs may be affected, although, it is thought of as a forelimb lameness.
Treatment is complex.
Corrective shoeing consists of raising the heels, rolling the toes and using a bar across the center on third of the frog. Rubber or silicone padding may be used to soften the concussion, relieving pain. These medications are best administered before the horse is to be ridden, and continued for a few days following. Intrabursal injections of corticosteroids provide relief of pain, however, they are a temporary measure and provide no permanent cure. Other medications such as Palosein have been used, however, its use seems to be more testimonial rather than an actual significant statistical advantage.