Geometric symmetry of the solar surface of hooves of thoroughbred racehorses.

The research inspects the geometric symmetry of the hoof surfaces in racehorses to provide valuable insights that may assist in the creation of appropriate hoof attachments and hoof-surface interaction studies. The findings reveal both mediolateral and dorsopalmar asymmetries in the examined hooves.

Methodology

• The researchers studied the left forelimbs of 20 Thoroughbred racehorse cadavers for a comprehensive understanding of the geometric configuration.
• A right-handed 3-D coordinate system centered on the collateral sulci (grooves on either side of the frog in a horse’s hoof) was established for the left front hoof.
• Anatomical features’ orthogonal distances from the dorsopalmar axis (axis from the back to front of the hoof) and the plane coinciding with the ground were measured and compared. The comparisons were between the medial and lateral sides (inside and outside of the hoof) and between the dorsal (upper or top surface of the hoof) and palmar regions (bottom or sole of the hoof).

Findings

• The hoof was found to be wider and with a greater radius on the lateral side than on the medial side. The distal part of the lateral bar of the frog was further from the dorsopalmar axis than the medial bar, suggesting geometric asymmetry.
• No mediolateral asymmetries in depth were observed. The sole at the perimeter was deeper medially in the dorsal part of the hoof and laterally in the palmar part. The total depth was greater in the direction of the palmar than the dorsal side.
• Most hoof features exhibited dorsopalmar asymmetry, indicating a lack of perfect geometric symmetry across the hoof surfaces.

Conclusions

• When the angle bisected by the collateral sulci was used to determine the dorsopalmar axis of the hoof, it was found that most central structures including the bars and collateral sulci showcased mediolateral symmetry.
• However, the hoof wall and the sole showed some mediolateral asymmetries. Furthermore, most structures exhibited dorsopalmar asymmetry.
• These findings could be pivotal in developing devices for attachment to the hooves and performing studies on hoof interaction with bearing surfaces.