Researchers at Colorado State University’s (CSU) Equine Orthopaedic Laboratory are once again seeking to recruit horses suffering with navicular disease to participate in the next phase of a new shoe study.

The first study, which began last August, exhibited solid success in diminishing the lameness caused by imbalances in hoof conformation. The research team would like to see the same success with the next trial so they can offer some definitive measures to help horses suffering with navicular disease.

The clinical trial, which will continue for the next year, involves comparing the effects of three different shoe types on horses diagnosed with clinical navicular disease, a degenerative condition of the navicular bone or soft tissues of the navicular area.

Potential participants are encouraged to make an appointment for a preliminary examination with the James L. Voss Veterinary Teaching Hospital (VTH) by calling Jeffery Alldredge, DVM at 970/491-4413. Horses will be evaluated by VTH equine veterinarians for lameness and those identified as potential candidates will be given the opportunity to participate in the study