The Collateral Cartilages and Sidebone in Horses
by Robert N. Oglesby DVM

Each hoof has two collateral cartilages that lie to each side of the coffin (toe) bone of the horse. Through flexion and pressure changes, the CC's are likely ot help provide circulatory support to the foot particularly when in motion. A common condition of horses is to have the cartilages to calcify and enlarge. Because the upper edge lies above the hoof wall this can be seen and palpated and is called sidebone. This occurs most often in the front feet and may be related to conformation or trimming. Even when present it is not a common cause of lameness but there are exceptions. This article discusses the anatomy of the collateral cartilages, the identification of sidebone, and the diagnosis of lameness associated with sidebone. Also discussed is the treatment of sidebone related lameness and links to further information on this condition provided.

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