[Do hoof cracks represent a superficial hoof-problem?].

The research looks into the problem of hoof cracks in horses, investigating causes and treatment options at the Equine Hospital of the University of Zurich. The findings emphasize that hoof cracks are not merely superficial issues but rather, concern significant health challenges for horses, requiring more intensive care and attention given the 20% recurrence rate even after treatment.

Research Context and Methodology

• The study was conducted at the Equine Hospital, University of Zurich. It involved a sample size of 54 horses, all of which had been referred to the hospital for hoof-crack treatments.
• The horses were not randomly selected but were rather chosen based on the presence of hoof cracks that had caused lameness or other related symptoms in the animals.
• The researchers carefully diagnosed the types of hoof cracks that were present in these horses, identifying deep or complicated quarter cracks as the most widely encountered type.

Findings on Causes of Hoof Cracks

• The researchers identified poor conformation and abnormal hoof shape as the principal causes of hoof crack development in horses. These conditions predispose horses’ hoofs to developing cracks that lead to painful conditions such as lameness.
• Damage to the coronary band, an area on the upper part of a horse’s hoof where the horn starts to grow, was also identified as a cause but was found to be less frequent in comparison.

Treatment of Hoof Cracks in Horses

• The study recommends proactive treatment measures including corrective shoeing, which involves reshaping and balancing the hoof and shoe to achieve better alignment and weight distribution in order to reduce strain on the hoof.
• Additionally, the removal of horn from weight-bearing surfaces and from the crack using a specialized tool known as a Dremel tool, was recommended.
• In order to prevent further crack development, immobilization of the borders of the crack was suggested as an intervention measure.

Recurrence rate of Hoof Cracks

• Despite the proposed treatment regime, the study found a 20% recurrence rate of hoof cracks in treated horses. This high recurrence rate highlights the complexity of the issue and the potential for underlying structural or health challenges that continue to expose the horses to such conditions.
• The high recurrence rate underscores the need for continual research into more effective treatments and preventive strategies for hoof cracks.