Introduction to the lameness

• Is lameness painful?

  Lameness is a behavioural indicator of pain - therefore is a welfare concern and pain relief is warranted.
• Inside the hoof - distal phalanx

  Positioned centrally within hoof capsule, attached by collagen attachments, should not be touching any part of the wall in a healthy hoof.

  DDFT inserts on caudal prominence.

  
• Inside the hoof - Sole corium

  Fills space between pedal bone and hoof.

  Blood vessels, nerves and other support structures.

  Stratum germinativum - produces sole horn.

  If damage to sole corium then will present as a sole ulcer.
• Inside the hoof - large digital cushion

  Pad of fat and elastic tissue.

  Dissipates force and transfers load to the wall during foot strike and limb loading.

  Very important.

  
• What is the situation for lameness in cattle?

  Globally estimated to be about 22%.

  This is a significant welfare concern as large numbers of cattle are affected and it is a painful condition.

  Also has a significant economic impact.
• What are the most important causes of lameness in dairy cows?

  Claw horn lesions:

  • Claw horn lesions.
  • White line disease.

  Infectious lesions:

  • Digital dermatitis
  • Foul in the foot.
• What is the current situation for lameness in the sheep?

  Globally estimated to be 10.4%.

  Large numbers affected, painful.

  Also has a significant economic impact.
• What are less common causes of lameness?

  Scald - early presentation of footrot.

  Toe granuloma

  Toe abscess

  Shelly hoof - outside hoof capsule becomes quite loose.
• What is the 5 point plan for reducing lameness in sheep?

  Build resilience:

  • Cull
  • Avoid

  Reduce disease challenge:

  • Treat
  • Quarantine

  Establish immunity:

  • Vaccinate