HOW EQUINE HOOF ANGLES IMPACT THE HINDQUARTERS
A balanced plantar angle of a hind hoof is a critical part of hind end biomechanics.
It has become increasingly normal for horses to have negative plantar angles, collapsed heels and overall poor alignment in the HOOF that impacts the BODY.
This affects the bone/joint alignment of the hind end as whole which can reduce ROM and performance ability.
Let's chat about it…
The plantar angle influences:
+mediolateral balance in the hoof-affecting how the weight distribution in the hock and stifle.
+load transfer-from the hoof, to the hock, to the stifle and then up to the pelvis and spine.
+pelvic engagement and stability-because the hindlimb is the prime of propulsion and balance.
Negative plantar angle causes:
+increased strain on the digital cushion and hoof wall
+can lead to pelvic asymmetry, SI joint strain and potential kissing spines.
+compensatory patterns over time can contribute to tendon/ligament strain and injury or arthritis over time.
Why does this matter to me as a bodyworker:
The horse's body can only be as balanced as the hoof foundation they carry themselves on.
If the balance is off at the hoof, it reduces range of motion and balance elsewhere, resulting in compensatory patterns that cause muscle and overall body compensation and soreness.
What can we do to ensure proper hoof balance?
Horses need an environment that supports overall balance.
Optimal movement will encourage healthy circulation and hoof wear.
Species appropriate nutrition FEEDS the hoof for optimal growth.
Shorter trim/reset cycles allow for angles to be managed.
Bodywork is intended to be a body balancing modality and not just used when there's a "problem". If there is a hoof rehab happening-bodywork will help provide overall body balancing support to keep them comfortable navigating new angles.
A phenomenal resource about all things hoof and body related is The Equine Documentalist! Yogi has some great webinars with other equine pros and solo that are top notch!! https://www.facebook.com/theequinedocumentalist
If you'd like to learn more about how the hoof and body are connected from a bodyworkers perspective-I have a class for that!
All SBW classes are lifetime access and are updated frequently.