SIDEBONE

[BabStar]

After intermittent lameness problems, my horse Freddie a 9 yr. old thoroughbred/clysedale has been diagnosed with sidebone. We are now trying remedial shoeing. Has anybody had the same problem and what sort of life did their horse have afterwards. I can keep him as a hacker but it would have to be mainly roadwork - will he be able to fun ride or anything?

[intouch]

What a shame, nine is too young to be written off, isn't it. I often think it's just as well we humans aren't written off as soon as we get an ache or pain - I'd have been on the scrap heap years ago. There are lots of alternative treatments you can try, I would start with magnetic wraps or boots, they often have suprisingly good results. I have used them a lot, if you want more info e-mail me and I will mail you some details.

[me2]

Well - it may not be as bad as you think - I'm no expert but I was once looking to buy a horse myself with this condition. I believe that your horse should improve & that this is very common especially in cob types.Once the sidebone has fully calcified then the pain & lameness should dissapear.He will benefit from being gently warmed up before use & avoiding hard ground such as roads as much as possible.His compedative days are probably over but there is no reason why he should not continue to have a long & happy life & to give you much pleasure :)

[summer]

Hello
I had a horse sent to me with new sidebones, and he was pretty uncomfortable for a while, but once they set, he was fine (it did take several months). He's now an intermediate level eventer, so it goes to show, if you respect the condition, your horse should give you years of riding! Follow your vet's and farrier's advice, and be patient; it will pay off.