Pyramidal Disease (Buttress Foot)

• Pyramidal Disease (Buttress Foot)
• Pyramidal disease, also called buttress foot, involves inflammation of the covering of connective tissue that surrounds the coffin bone.
• The disease may arise after trauma or from a separating fracture caused by excess tension on the tendon.
• Secondary arthritis is a likely complication. In early stages, the area will be hot and painful. 
• The toe region above the coronet usually enlarges, creating the “buttress foot” appearance.
• There is no specific treatment for pyramidal disease.
• Anti-inflammatory medication given by mouth or injection may be beneficial.
• Corrective shoeing can help minimize lameness.
• Surgery has been successful for the separating fractures.