Some say the frog functions like a heart by pumping blood back up the horse’s leg in conjunction with the digital cushion, but as Randy Luikart writes, that couldn’t be further from the truth.

“The digital cushion is essentially devoid of blood and the frog functions without muscle and the necessary equipment to pump,” Luikart writes.

The frog is connected to the bulbs of the heel and coronary band and lies between the bars of the wall. It consists of a horny frog and a sensitive frog.

“The digital cushion is similar in shape and extends between the lateral cartilages. It is bordered by the frog on the solar surface. The deep digital flexor tendon rests on the proximal surface of the digital cushion to aid in support of the navicular bone and coffin joint,” he writes. “The wedge shape of both pieces of anatomy provides posterior support for the honey column as it functions during weight bearing. How it functions or its specific role(s) during this phase is hotly debated. It functions mechanically by directing forces placed upon it from below and above, both laterally and forward. Due to the frog’s shape, pressure is primarily redirected toward the toe or forward when weight is placed on it from above.”

The frog can be used for shock absorption when allowed to contact the ground, as it is supporting weight from above.

“Couple shock absorption with the position of the bars being angled away from the frog and it is evident the frog and digital cushion assist in applying forces laterally to the bars,” Luikart writes.

For more information on the purpose of the frogs and how to treat and identify lameness in the foot using the frog, read Luikart’s article “Identifying Equine Lameness with Frog Pads & Plates” featured in the May/June 2026 issue of American Farriers Journal.