Page 293 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse
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OSSIFICATION OF THE COLLATERAL CARTILAGES OF
THE PEDAL BONE (SIDEBONE)
VetBooks.ir Sidebone is a condition where bone is deposited in the paired cartilages that are attached to
either side of the pedal bone. This process is known as ossification. It is more common in the
front feet and increases with the age of the horse. Heavy breeds seem to be particularly
susceptible.
The cartilages can be palpated above the coronary band towards the back of the foot
(Figure 6.58 and see Figure 6.5). They extend from above the heel bulbs to halfway between
the heel and toe. They are normally quite springy but become hard and unyielding when a
horse has sidebone.
Figure 6.58 Palpating the lateral cartilages
