Are your horse’s hooves deformed?

There are a variety of factors that contribute to the hoof capsule deforming and subsequently becoming out of balance with the internal structures of the foot, primarily the coffin bone.  Factors such as trimming technique and shoes, including the type of shoe applied, as well as, various environmental factors all contribute to hoof deformities and the problems associated with them. Regardless of the contributing factors, it is important to identify the deformity as soon as possible and take steps to correct it. The following is a simple method to help you identify if your horse’s hooves are deformed. This is a method developed by Gene Ovincek and has proven itself to me countless times. (you will need a ruler and marker)

1)      Pick up the foot and measure across the bottom of the foot at the widest part. Generally, it will lie about ½ inch behind the tip of the frog. Draw a line across the foot at this point.

2)      Now determine where the point of breakover is at the toe and measure from this point back to the line you drew at the widest point.

3)      The last measurement you will need is from the widest point of the hoof back to the heels (the furthest point making ground contact)

4)      Now using these measurements, determine the ratio of ground surface ahead of and behind the widest part of the foot. If there is a greater percentage ahead of the widest part than behind it, more than likely the foot is out of equilibrium and corrective measures should be taken to reestablish balance.

Ideally the ratio should be 40-50% front and 60-50% rear. This is a good indicator that the foot is landing correctly (heel first) and in turn functioning properly. Obviously, defects such as cracks or flaring indicate the need for corrective measures being taken regardless of the ratio.

Why Heel First?

·         A heel first landing properly aligns the pastern during the landing and loading phase of the stride.

·        There are neurological sensors in the heels and frog that send messages to the   

      rest of the body, aiding in proprioception. Proprioception is the ability to know   

             where your limbs are without external stimuli. Heightened proprioception results

             increased coordination.

·         One of the methods the foot uses to absorb the energy created at impact is

hemodynamics. Hemodynamics, a theory developed by Dr. Bowker of Michigan State University, involves the circulatory system. A major player in this process is the digital cushion which lies above the frog. Properly stimulating the digital cushion via a heel first landing creates a vacuum drawing blood into the foot. It is theorized that this rapid exchange of blood dissipates some of the energy absorbed at impact.

                         DEFORMED HOOF                                            HEALTHY HOOF

A Healthier Horse From The Ground Up