Investigating Associations between Horse Hoof Conformation and Presence of Lameness.

The research observes that the shape and balance of a horse’s hoof, influenced by hoof trimming and shoeing, plays a significant role in horse limb biomechanics. In particular, the study assesses how hoof configuration might prevent or cause injury, focussing on the dorsal hoof wall angle (DHWA) and the coronet band circumference (CBC). The study shows horses with certain hoof characteristics are more likely to suffer from lameness, noting a higher prevalence in show jumping and dressage horses.

Methodology

• The study examined the relationship between the morphometric traits of horse’s hoof and lameness.
• 73 horses were involved in the study and were categorised based on their activities, which included show jumping, dressage, or riding school activities.
• The researchers looked specifically at the dorsal hoof wall angle (DHWA) and the coronet band circumference (CBC) as key parameters.

Findings

• The study found that particular combinations of DHWA and CBC in a horse’s hoof were associated with higher probabilities of lameness.
• Horses with an acute DHWA and a large CBC, or horses with more upright feet (large DHWA) and a smaller CBC, were more likely to be lame.
• Show jumping and dressage horses demonstrated a higher incidence of lameness.

Conclusions and Recommendations

• The research emphasizes the importance of regularly monitoring hoof morphometry and scheduling podiatric interventions to maintain correct hoof conformation and prevent injury.
• An aligned hoof-pastern axis, managed by a DHWA of approximately 50 degrees, may help to prevent lameness. This is particularly relevant for horses engaged in dressage and show jumping activities.
• The study also postulates that an unaligned axis of DHWA could be a cause of lameness, though more investigation is required to confirm this speculation.