What is equine navicular bursitis?

'Equine' refers to horses; 'navicular' is the distal phalanx in the foot (the bone inside the hoof) and 'bursitis' is inflammation of the bursa, which is a dilation of the tendon sheath.

Putting the Words back together, equine navicular bursitis is an inflammation of the tendon sheath pouch running along the caudal side of the navicular bone, which is in the hoof of the horse. This is generally excruciatingly painful to the horse and often the horse will be three-legged lame (not putting any weight on the affected leg). Treatment is non-specific and supportive - anti-inflammatories, stall rest, hoof soaks to pull some of the inflammation out, etc.

The cause is generally unknown, unless there is a true infection or a foreign object found. Prognosis is guarded, particularly for any return to athletic competition.