Farriery for the hoof with a sheared heel.

This research article discusses the phenomenon of sheared heels in horses, why they occur, the specific traits seen in horses that develop this, and how farriery can help in managing the condition.

Understanding Sheared Heels

• Sheared heels is a condition that occurs in horses due to an abnormal strike and loading pattern of the foot. The abnormal patterns are usually a consequence of the horse’s limb conformation.
• Under normal circumstances, the growth rate around the circumference of the hoof should be almost uniform. However, in some cases, regional disturbances can cause an increase or decrease in growth rate, leading to adaptation-distortion of the hoof capsule and development of sheared heels.

Conformation Traits in Horses With Sheared Heels

• The primary conformational trait that is observed in horses that develop sheared heels is a rotational deformity of the distal limb. This means some form of twist or turning is present in the lower part of the horse’s leg.
• Another characteristic trait of horses with sheared heels is a narrow chest. Narrow-chested horses tend to have their front legs closer together, which may contribute to the abnormal loading and strike patterns of the foot.

Role of Farriery in Managing Sheared Heels

• The study emphasizes the role of farriery, or the practice of shoeing horses, in managing sheared heels. Farriery aims to improve the distortion of the hoof capsule and decrease the forces on the displaced side of the foot.
• By appropriately using farriery techniques, it is possible to help manage the sheared heels. This is achieved by balancing the forces applied to the foot and helping return the hoof’s growth pattern towards normality.