Understanding Navicular Pain

The navicular bone is a small, boat-shaped bone located within the horse’s hoof: behind the coffin bone, in back of the joint, and below the short pastern bone. It plays critical roles: in acting as a fulcrum for the deep digital flexor tendon, absorbing shock during movement and distributing pressure within the hoof. In Navicular Disease, the entire area becomes inflamed and painful, often involving damage to the bone itself, surrounding ligaments, or the fluid-filled sac (bursa) that cushions the area. This is the cause of the limping and discomfort you see in your horse.

Gallium Nitrate: A Two-Pronged Approach

Gallium Nitrate tackles Navicular Disease in two key ways:

• Protecting Existing Bone: One of the problems in Navicular Disease is that the body can start breaking down bone tissue in the navicular area (a process called bone resorption). Gallium Nitrate inhibits this destructive process, preventing further damage to the delicate navicular bone.
• Encouraging Healthy Bone Growth: Gallium Nitrate doesn’t just stop damage; it also encourages the cells responsible for building new bone (osteoblasts) to start rebuilding. This process helps to repair the navicular bone and promotes stronger, healthier bone structure in the affected area.

Reducing Inflammation and Pain

Beyond its effects on bone, Gallium Nitrate also has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Much of the pain associated with Navicular Disease comes from inflammation within the hoof structures. By reducing inflammation, Gallium Nitrate directly helps to alleviate your horse’s pain and discomfort, leading to improved soundness and comfort.

How is it Given?

Gallium Nitrate is administered as a one percent (1%) liquid solution mixed directly into your horse’s daily feed. After following the dilution instructions carefully on the Gallium Nitrate bottle label, it becomes a straightforward process, making it easy to incorporate into the horse’s routine.

What Results Can You Expect?

Studies and owner reports have shown significant improvements:

• Reduced Lameness: Horses show a noticeable decrease in pain and lameness, often within the first few weeks of treatment.
• Improved Soundness: A significant number of horses have returned to soundness, moving more comfortably and freely.
• Long-Lasting Effects: The benefits often continue even after the initial treatment period.

Is it Safe?

Based on studies, Gallium Nitrate has shown a strong, safety profile when used as directed. The most commonly reported side effect is “overly exuberant behavior” at first return to pasture. As with any supplement, it is important to follow the bottle label instructions and dosage instructions based on your horse’s weight.

A Hopeful Path Forward

Gallium Nitrate offers a unique way to address the underlying bone issues and inflammation associated with Navicular Disease. By protecting existing bone, promoting new growth, and reducing pain, it provides a comprehensive approach to help your horse feel and move better.