Hoof Balance: The Key To SoundnessBarefoot or shod, poor hoof balance is one of the most common causes of lameness in a horse's foot. There are many factors affecting balance including conformational faults, injury, disease, nutrition, environment and poor shoeing/trimming. This is a complex topic. In a nutshell, it is the practice of trimming a hoof in three dimensions: height, width, and depth. Achieving the proper relationship between the three allows the horse to move better and more naturally. This puts less strain on bones, tendons and ligaments. There is no formula or measurement for "perfect balance". Evaluation is an acquired skill that demands practice and careful observation of the horse, both standing still and in motion. Each horse's requirements will be different, and it is up to the farrier or trimmer to assess your horse for optimum balance. To find a farrier or trimmer with the skills necessary to care for your horse's feet, ask the following questions: Do you have local references? What is your level of education, certification or training? What do you think constitutes a balanced hoof? How do you achieve a balanced hoof? Your horse will need to be trimmed at intervals of about 5-8 weeks, depending upon how fast your horse grows hoof. Growth can be affected by season and other factors so this schedule may vary over the course of the year. Proper balance is important in minimizing development of foot lameness. The majority of foot and leg diseases are caused or aggravated by unbalanced feet. Feet that are kept balanced are seldom lame!
Return From Hoof Balance To Routine Horse Care
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