4 yr old mare lameness

Question
Hi, i have a 4 yr old arab x appaloosa mare. Recently, she has become lame on both front feet. She is slightly over weight but have managed to drop off a little by bringing her in. (As she used to be out 24/7) She has 1 splint on her front near side leg,on the inside right next to her knee. (It's apprx 1 inch long) Of which is the main leg she is lame on.the vet has said the splint has concreted itself and isn't causing any problems. I was in the process of breaking her in but only got as far as lunging before we started getting problems. She is un-shod. Any idea what could be wrong? As have no idea who to go to next for advice. Many thanks for your help.

Answer
Hello Kora,

Did you vet say anything about the possibility that the mare needs shoes?  She could get a stone bruise without them.  I would contact a good farrier (horse shoer) and have him put shoes at least on her front feet.  

Also have him press the sole and check for any soreness. She could have a beginning case of navicular.  If he finds any ouchiness or if the shoes do not prevent her gimping, then you had better contact a different vet for a series of xrays on her feet.

Meanwhile do not work her at all.

Good luck,

Dorothy