Pedal osteitis is inflammation of the pedal bone. It is a reaction of the bone in response to a primary insult, such as that caused by horses with a history of laminitis, keratomas, surgical implants, chronic subsolar bruising or abscesses, penetrating injuries to the foot with or without infection and septic pododermatitis. Pedal osteitis is often found in horses with abnormalities of foot shape, particularly long toe-low heel foot shape, and flat, thin soles, as it can add to the concussive forces on the sole and pedal bone.

The goals of treatment for horses with pedal osteitis are aimed at resolving the primary problem, and preventing further pressure and concussion on the sole.