Posted by M. W. Myers, D.V.M. on April 05, 2003 at 18:50:42:
In Reply to: Gallium Nitrate posted by Patti on April 04, 2003 at 21:18:52:
: I have a seven year old paint just diagnosed with navicular changes on his x-rays. He has always been 100%sound. A few months ago I changed to aluminum shoes and he went dead lame. Have gone back to steel but only one week ago. He is still lame. Wondering about different treatments for navicular and peoples experiences with Gallium. For the past month he has been on ixop, absorbine flex + and biotin 22X, no improvement. I don't want to use bute because of his young age and the side effects. Anyone with any advice. Thanks so much.
There are plenty of references in this board's archives about the "wonders of gallium nitrate". The mechanism by which it is supposed to work has nothing to do with the pathology of navicular syndrome which tends to discount the anecdotal evidence of success.
This horse does not have the proper mechanics applied as yet and will not improve until this happens. Correct address to phalangeal alignment, breakover, and caudal limb support are the main tenets of successful therapy. This can only be done with radiographic assistance. Changing between aluminum and steel has nothing to do with the problem, the mechanics have escaped in some fashion.
M. W. Myers, D.V.M.