what is ringbone in horses

Ringbone is a degenerative disease that affects the pastern and coffin joints in horses. It is characterized by new bone growth and is a form of osteoarthritis. Ringbone can affect horses of all breeds, ages, and functions. There are two types of ringbone: high ringbone, which affects the pastern joint, and low ringbone, which affects the coffin joint. The condition is caused by bony proliferation accumulating over time on the coffin and/or pastern joints. Signs of ringbone include a change in gait, such as a short or choppy stride, or overt lameness, as well as heat, swelling, and/or pain in the pastern joint. Diagnosis of ringbone can be made by an equine veterinarian based on a history of the horses symptoms and the results of a lameness examination, which may include X-rays. Although ringbone is a progressive and irreversible condition, there are several management changes that can be implemented to help keep a horse with ringbone more comfortable, such as keeping the horse at a healthy weight and using various shoeing techniques. Treatment options for ringbone include rest, weight management, medications, shoe adjustments, and surgery. The goal of treatment is to slow the progression of cartilage degeneration and reduce pain and inflammation associated with the condition.