Proper physiologic horseshoeing.

The research article talks about the importance of following the principles of physiological horseshoeing for maintaining the health and performance of a horse. The paper suggests that with understanding and correct application of these principles, including hoof angle, HPA, and mediolateral balance, horse lameness can be reduced or restored.

Understanding Physiological Horseshoeing

• The research points towards the significance of physiological horseshoeing, which is a method of shoeing horses that respects and adheres to the natural mechanics and anatomy of a horse’s hoof. This method looks at how the horse uses its foot and designs the horseshoe and trimming techniques to complement that usage.
• This technique becomes vital as unsuitable trimming techniques or ill-fitting horseshoes can cause discomfort, pain, and lead to long-term damage to the horse’s hooves. Therefore, adherence to the basic principles of physiological horseshoeing is essential for maintaining hoof health and soundness.

Role of Physiological Horseshoeing in Horse Performance

• The findings highlight that trimming and shoeing techniques play a crucial role in a horse’s performance. Therefore, knowledge of when to change these techniques can potentially enhance the performance of a sound horse, or help restore the performance of a horse that has gone lame.
• The article suggests that most horses do not require special trimming or shoeing techniques. As long as the trimming and shoeing observe the horse’s natural mechanics and physiology, it results in a healthy hoof and a sound horse.

The Principles of Physiological Horseshoeing

• Some of the basic principles mentioned include hoof angle, HPA, and mediolateral balance. The hoof angle generally means the angle of the dorsal wall of the hoof. The HPA (Hoof-Pastern Axis) refers to the alignment between the hoof and the pastern. Mediolateral balance indicates the balance between the medial (inside) and lateral (outside) sides of the hoof.
• According to the research, understanding and applying these basic principles are vital in ensuring proper physiological horseshoeing, leading to a healthier horse. The study thus emphasizes the necessity of having in-depth knowledge and skillful application for these principles, to approach farriery as a science and not just as an art.