Hoof Capsule Shape Plays Critical Role In Expansion

Jeff Thomason, the biomechanics researcher from the University of Guelph in Ontario, says his research has led him to theorize that the dropping of the sole during the loading phase of the stance is caused not so much by the coffin bone descending as it is by the shape of the hoof capsule itself. “The hoof is a cone,” he explained at the 2010 International Hoof-Care Summit. “When we drive the sides of a cone into the ground or a substrate, because of the flares, they tend to go out and to rock as well.”

Thomason believes these twin motions act on the laminar junction, which causes the sole to drop. Force is transmitted from the sole out to the walls of the hoof capsule, rather than to the soft tissue in the center of the hoof. (See Pages 26 to 28 for more details from Thomason’s Summit presentation on biomechanics.)

Keep In Constant Contact With Your Footcare Clients

Gary Weers believes it is essential to visit hoof-care clients regularly regardless of the schedule or their request for longer shoeing intervals. “If there’s not enough growth to warrant pulling shoes and trimming, I offer a $30 adjustment fee for cutting and reclinching the nails,” says the Seguin, Texas, farrier.

Do Equine Drugs Impact Hoof Growth?

While some folks maintain the overuse of equine drugs such as dewormers may lead to reduced hoof growth, there doesn’t appear to be any scientific evidence to…