Farrier Takeaways

• Clubfoot is a congenital or acquired distal interphalangeal flexural deformity of the toe. In general, a clubfoot can be defined as a hoof that meets the ground at an angle greater than 60 degrees.
• A clubfoot most often develops due to a shortening of the musculotendinous unit of the deep digital flexor tendon relative to the bony column, which results in hyperflexion of the distal interphalangeal joint.
• Manual therapy or osteopathy can be used to decrease the tonus of the triceps muscle and other contracted muscular units in combination with gentle stretching of the legs reduce tension and contraction of the soft tissue, decrease muscular pain and increase wellbeing of the patient.
• Sedation is unnecessary when gluing shoes on a foal. Even those that have little experience with handling by humans usually behave well when the environment is calm and relaxed.