Final answer:
Bony growths such as splints, spavins, and ringbones are often the result of environmental factors like poor diet and lack of exercise, leading to bone disorders including osteoporosis. Nutrient deficiencies, especially in vitamin D and calcium, along with potential hereditary factors, also play a role in bone health.
Step-by-step explanation:
Bony growths like splints, spavins, and ringbones often result from environmental factors, which include but are not limited to poor diet, smoking, alcohol consumption, and lack of exercise. These factors can lead to various bone disorders, such as osteoporosis, which is characterized by a progressive reduction in bone tissue per unit volume, causing skeletal weakness and potential fractures. The malabsorption of calcium and deficiencies in essential nutrients like vitamin D can lead to improper bone development, as seen in conditions like rickets in children. Additionally, parathyroid gland issues can result in an imbalance in calcium homeostasis, contributing to bone problems.
Bones grow in diameter through bone formation beneath the periosteum. The balance between bone deposition and resorption is critical for maintaining healthy bones. Overactive osteoclasts, which may be influenced by hereditary factors, and other medical conditions like hyperparathyroidism or hypoparathyroidism, can also affect bone health and lead to abnormal bone growths.