Nerving

Dr. Tom,

I just read your article about "nerving" and had a few questions.  I have a 6 year old cutting horse that was highly successful.  He was shod every 6 weeks faithfully and had great care.  Last year he seemed a little off but not real noticeable.  He did have some heel pain in one foot, none in the other.  After many x-rays, and lameness exams it was found that the nervicular bursa had been torn.  I think this happened at a cutting in too deep of sand.  My vet said it had healed but there was no way to tell how involved it was.  He recommended nerving him, because he said the damage had been done and healed.  He only had the very slightest of a limp.  I would like to know your opinion.  I don't want to do more damage to him, if his career is over, I can accept that.

Thanks!  Robin

Hi Robin,

 

Scarring in this area can cause mechanical as well as painful interference with the horse's gait.  Since we currently do not have an effective way to remove scar tissue from these previously injured areas, many of these horses have a permanent "hitch" with the way they travel.  I have had the best results getting optimum hoof form and function in these horses, which takes much of the pressure off their injured/scarred areas.

 

Dr. TT