In this video we discuss ideal posture and hoof proportions, why this is important to the well-being and soundness of the horse and how to support your horse from the foot, up! We highlight the importance of proper alignment of the bones of the digit of the horse.... in studies, low plantar P3 angles have been found to be associated with increased incidence of lameness in the hind limb, primarily in the stifle, then the hock, then the ligamentous tissues (see: An investigation into the association between plantar distal phalanx angle and hindlimb lameness in a UK population of horses
P. E. Clements, I. Handel, S. A. McKane, R. P. Coomer
First published: 30 September 2019 https://doi.org/10.1111/eve.13186).
It is important that less than ideal hoof morphologies or proportions and compensatory posture are recognised early and a positive intervention used to promote healthy hoof proportions and posture BEFORE lameness and pathology occur. If you are seeking expert support for your horse from an integrative perspective, visit Holistic Equine for consults, services, educational events, courses and resources. You can learn more about healthy ideals here
What do you consider 'healthy' (which is a widely different question to what is 'normal')?
What guidelines might you use to help you assess and implement an intervention plan to create or maintain healthy ideals?
How would you be able to assess whether a horse is at risk of injury or ready for ridden work?
Is your farrier, trimmer or EP using guidelines which appreciate and support healthy palmar/plantar P3 angles?
In order to see the problem, you first have to look!
A horse with less than ideal hooves like most horses we meet can appear to be 'sound'... until they're not.... horses are masters at hiding problems, pain and lameness... until they breakdown and cannot hide it any longer. Proactive approaches to wholistic hoof care can allow for early recognition, intervention and prevention of lameness IN THE FUTURE. 💚🐴
Beccy Smith BSc ADAEP EBW
Diploma in Advanced Applied Equine Podiatry and Independent Equine Podiatrist, Consultant and Therapist
CEO and Founder of 100% Non-Profit Community Interest Company Holistic Reflections CIC
If, like our clients, you want to learn a PRO-Active approach to hoof care and wish to prevent lameness in your horse, consider booking us for an Integrative Podiatry Consult, Educational Event, Mentorship, On-line Course or join our new VIP membership where you can learn top tips straight from an expert!
We take an integrative and holistic approach to whole horse hoof and body health. We appreciate the relationship between body, limb and hoof and seek to address imbalances while positively influencing appropriate static and dynamic hoof balance and biomechanics.
Beccy Smith BSc DAEP EBW – Independent Equine Podiatrist and CEO of Holistic Reflections CIC
Holistic Reflections CIC – a 100% non-profit organisation promoting wellbeing and resilience in people, horses and the environment - for the benefit of all.