Ringbone

I'd have to read up on it just to know what it is!

Doesn't it have to do with confirmation and how the horse is used?  My filly's mother was used as a jumper, developed ringbone and was layed up for a while, became sound and was used as a trail horse.  I'll have to look it up too.

What do you use her for?  What exactly did the vet say?  What are her symptoms?

Ringbone is another label for arthritis.
It can be high,  or low (harder to treat) Ringbone can also be articular (involving a joint) or non-articular. Its the articular ringbone that causes discomfort and is more serious.
If the horse is uncomfortable, a bute regime may be needed (ask the vet) It will help with pain and inflammation. Also ask if any joint supplements are required.

 Keeping the horse outside and allowing free movement is also good vs. standing in a stall.

The best thing you can do is get a good balanced trim and keep it that way, so nothing is aggravating with every step. If he is flared forward with excess toe, this kind of impact will jam right up the front of the leg, including the knee. The barefoot trim with a bevel at the toe will instantly eliminate such torque.

If you've talked with the vet and are still left with questions, do not hesitate to call him back.


A - Periosteal Reaction at the top of P2, distal P1 and is called high articular ringbone
B - Low non-articular ringbone

Hope this helps!