ADegenerative joint disease (ringbone) is a progressive problem. The treatment is aimed at maintaining the horse’s soundness and halting the disease’s progression. Therapy consists of rest in the early stages of the disease, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents as needed, systemic Adequan is helpful, intra-articular medications (especially corticosteroids) if necessary, and of course therapeutic shoeing.

Strict attention to farrier care will play a large role in future soundness. Pre-existing hoof problems such as long toe, poor hoof-pastern axis, etc., should be corrected. Easing breakover can decrease some of the forces placed on the joints of the lower limb.

This can be accomplished through the use of a properly fitted square, rolled, or rocker-toe shoe. Another excellent choice to ease breakover is a half-round shoe. Easing breakover with these methods will not affect the horse’s ability to jump. Traction devices such as screw-in studs of various sizes and shapes can be placed in the heel of the shoe and used during training and competition with no adverse effects on the modified toe. However, these traction devices should be employed with care in a horse with joint disease