What Are the Treatments for Bone Spurs in Horses?

According to Dr. R. Stuart Shoemaker, a bone spur is "a sharp bony projection that are visible on X-rays at the joint margins of affected horses." Bone spurs are developed as the horse's way of stabilizing a joint that has become susceptible to developing arthritis.

  1. Criterion for Treatment

    • Before considering treatment, several factors are taken into account. A horse's age, usage and which joint is affected are all factors considered. Also, development of osteoarthritis is taken into account.

    Corrective Shoeing

    • Corrective shoeing is a method of treating bone spurs.

    Anti-inflammatory Medication

    • The horse may also be given topical anti-inflammatory medication in order to reduce the swelling around the affected joint. The reduced swelling will counteract the development of the bone spur.

    Bandages

    • Special supportive bandages and boots can be worn by the affected horse to help take some of the pressure off of the affected joint.

    Injections

    • Joints can be injected with anti-inflammatory medication in order to counteract the development of the bone spur.

    Herbal Treaments

    • According to the Herbal Treatments website, there are also some natural ways of treating bone spurs. Improving circulation and promoting absorption of the bone spur are two keys to treating bone spur development in horses. A mixture of Comfrey, kelp granules, ground linseed, ground millet, yarrow herb and bach flower can help to promote normal bone growth and absorption of the bone spur.