Growth problems, from left to right:
Knock knees, epiphysitis, contracted tendons, epiphysitis

Preventative measures can be taken to reduce the risk of nutrition related developmental problems. Research has shown that high protein diets are not directly linked to Developmental Orthopaedic Disease (DOD). However, a high energy diet accompanied by an inadequate supply of minerals can result in developmental problems. Typically, this would occur when straight cereals are fed without a supplement or balancer designed specifically for breeding and youngstock.
 
There are several factors involved in growth related skeletal problems:
  • Genetic predisposition including poor leg conformation and the inability to absorb certain nutrients.
  • Management including limited activity, too much forced activity and trauma from carrying too much weight.
  • Nutrition, starting from the pregnant mare absorbing inadequate nutrients for foetal development and including large grain based meals fed to youngstock, and infrequent feeding.