Comprehensive Approach to Treatment of Chronic Laminitis in Ponies: A Clinical Case Report
Authors: M. V. Korobchuk, A. I. Karklin, O. V. Romanova, A. Nechaev
Journal: Russian Journal of Veterinary Pathology
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Comprehensive Treatment of Chronic Laminitis in Ponies Chronic laminitis remains a significant clinical challenge in equine medicine, yet systematic, evidence-based treatment protocols remain poorly standardised across the profession—a gap this Russian case study addresses through detailed documentation of a Welsh pony's recovery. Over 2019–2020, researchers implemented a multifactorial approach combining radiographic assessment, precision farriery (hoof wall scraping and filing based on radiographic findings), dietary modification (near-complete removal of high-calorie concentrate feed), environmental management (daily grazing in natural conditions), and daily blood glucose monitoring via portable meter. The pony achieved normalisation of glucose fluctuations, significant weight loss, return of hoof conformation towards normal anatomy, and sustained recovery without relapse—outcomes the authors attribute directly to addressing both the mechanical hoof pathology and underlying metabolic drivers, particularly the dysregulation of blood glucose that perpetuated inflammation. For practitioners, the case emphasises that effective laminitis management demands true interdisciplinary coordination between veterinarian and farrier alongside owner compliance; equally important is identifying and correcting systemic metabolic dysfunction rather than treating hoof changes in isolation, with particular attention to concentrate intake and movement opportunities as modifiable risk factors for recurrence.
Read the full abstract on the publisher's site
Practical Takeaways
- •Chronic laminitis requires a systematic diagnostic and treatment protocol including clinical exam, imaging, and identification of underlying metabolic or systemic causes—not just symptomatic hoof care
- •Diet modification (reduction of concentrates) and increased natural exercise on varied terrain are critical for managing weight and glucose metabolism; monitor blood glucose daily during recovery
- •Successful outcomes depend on close farrier-veterinarian collaboration and owner commitment; ensure clients understand that hoof care alone without addressing underlying risk factors will fail
Key Findings
- •Comprehensive multimodal treatment combining hoof trimming, dietary modification, management changes, and daily glucose monitoring resulted in resolution of chronic laminitis in a Welsh pony
- •Reduction of high-calorie compound feed and daily exercise on natural terrain normalized blood glucose fluctuations and reduced excess body weight
- •X-ray guided hoof trimming and filing restored near-normal hoof shape and function
- •Coordinated veterinary-farrier collaboration with owner compliance was essential for successful treatment and prevention of relapse