Navicular w/a bone chip

Question
Thank you for your previous answer to my navicular question. I do have a wonderful,knowledgeable farrier to help with this situation. My additional question is: is it possible for this condition to go undiagnosed? Previously this horse had been ridden western and english, on cows, rocky trails, etc. with just a standard shoe. It's hard for me to believe that he remained sound for the past 11 years. Thank you, and I love the wealth of information that you put into your answers.


Answer
HEY MARIA...

Very easily could have been !!??!!

BUT...because it ALWAYS starts out as a "bursitis" //inflammation...the degeneration and
bone changes on some horses are slower than others.

That is why I said there is NO RECIPE for shoeing this condition. EVERY case is different,
as every horse is different in their pain and needs. SOME DON'T want to think
about that when they are prescribing the same shoe/package for every case !!

Like people, some are so tough and durable that they "soldier-on" as they say and then start to crash. Many horses will be slightly "off" not so much head-bobbing-lame, and riders will think
they are only tired after events or long rides and competitions.
Instead the horse is trying to tell them, that "I'm sore...not tired" but the untrained eye
doesn't see it. Most horses/cases I see and work on is very advanced. The horses are further along in their problems and so people then get motivated/worried and search for a vet/farrier
that can help.

Glad you have the help...
Best to You !!
Joepaul