The management of equine acute laminitis

Abstract

Laminitis is an extremely painful condition resulting in damage to the soft tissues anchoring the third phalanx to the hoof, which can result in life-threatening debilitation. Specific therapy is not available. The most important principles of therapy include aggressive nutritional and medical management of primary disease processes, cryotherapy, anti-inflammatory therapy, pain management, and biomechanical support. This review focuses on the principles of evidenced-based therapies.

Keywords: laminitis biomechanics; laminitis pain; laminitis treatment.

Figure 1

Material on the hoof. Notes: Once the impression material is mixed together, it is applied over the frog and collateral sulci. The material is pushed into place but does not extend to the apex of the frog. Slightly more material than is needed is applied and left bulging over the central sulcus of the frog. The foot is then placed on the ground and the contralateral limb is elevated briefly, which will extrude excess material caudally, behind the heel bulbs.

Figure 2

Material on ground. Notes: The material has cured and is now firm. It will retain its shape; therefore, trimming of the material to fit the foot or unload specific areas can be performed without losing a secure fit.