More questions about coffin joint arthritic changes

[[59668]]

So, as is always the case, the more I read the more questions I have

Background is 7yo cob mare diagnosed with very early coffin joint inflammation only visible on MRI not xray.

Vet and I were anticipating soft tissue issues after the lack of anything on xray so I had a plan for shoes off and a proper barefoot rehab

Now I'm not sure. She is having her joints medicated tomorrow and I don't want to change too much in one go.

I can't find much about barefoot rehab for only arthritic changes. Can anyone help?

I'm thinking it might be best to leave shoes on for a while and see what effect the joint medication has and let it settle before making such a bit change like taking shoes off. Maybe look at doing that later....if it would even be beneficial.

 

[spotty_pony]

Shoes if on need to offer appropriate caudal heel support - the hoof pastern axis needs to be correct, and usually this involves taking the toe back. Get a good farrier onside is my advice - I have a horse with caudal heel pain but his is DDFT and Navicular related so slightly different but the importance of getting his feet right is what has made the biggest difference so far on his road to recovery.