Characteristics of Hoof Landing in Sound Horses and the Influence of Trimming and Shoeing Examined With Hoof-Mounted Inertial Sensors.

The research article investigates the impact of various hoof manipulations on the landing characteristics of horses’ front feet, using a new hoof-mounted sensor technology. It found that while some manipulations affected certain aspects, overall, trimming and shoeing had less impact than traditionally believed.

Research Objective and Methodology

• The main purpose of this study was to explore the impact of diverse hoof manipulations like trimming, shoeing, and applying weight or wedges on the landing duration (LandD), location, and angle of initial contact (IC) in horse’s front feet.
• The research used a new technology, a hoof-mounted Inertial Measurement Unit sensor system (IMU), to collect real-time data on the horses’ hoof movements.
• Ten sound, crossbred horses underwent various manipulations, and their hoof landing characteristics were observed when they ran in a straight line on firm ground.

Key Findings

• Compared to barefoot, the use of steel shoes increased the time horses spent on the ground during “landing” (LandD), and accentuated the individual angle at which the hoof initially hits the ground (IC) in a trot.
• Using rolled toe shoes resulted in a longer land time (LandD) than using plain shoes.
• None of the other modifications such as added weights, wedges, and different shoe types (egg bar, lateral extension shoes) significantly impacted the time or spatial characteristics of hoof landing.
• Strikingly, trimming and shoeing interventions had less influence on the landing pattern of horses than what is typically believed in practice.

Implications

• The use of steel shoes changes the sliding properties of the hooves on firm ground and increases weight, causing a longer LandD and an intensified IC.
• The findings could influence the way horse owners and caregivers approach hoof care. As the impact of trimming and shoeing on landing pattern is less than anticipated, other factors might be more critical in optimizing a horse’s performance and health.
• The innovative use of IMU technology paves the way for further studies into the biomechanical behaviours of horses’ hooves, providing new insights for equine care and sports science.