A Radiographic Evaluation of Lower Limb Angles of Shod and Unshod Horses
Loading...
Date
2024-12
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
The Ohio State University
Abstract
A horse’s lower legs and hooves are vital in providing support and shock absorption when standing or moving. The angles of a horse’s leg joints directly influence how a horse moves, distributes weight, absorbs shock, and ultimately impacts its performance and soundness. Horseshoes are often used to provide protection and support for the hoof and lower leg; however, there is little evidence of the influence of wearing horseshoes on joint angles. The aim of this study was to compare lower limb angles of shod and unshod horses using Metron Imaging Software. Lateral radiographs were taken of each horse’s (n = 38) front left and right lower limbs at a horse show in central Ohio. Horse breed, age, hoof status (shod/unshod), lameness history, and hoof care information were collected via owner surveys. Metron Imaging Software was utilized to measure and record pastern-joint angle, coffin-joint angle, hoof angle, and palmar angle for each limb. Data was analyzed using PROC MIXED and PROC CORR in SAS v 9.4. Results indicated a significantly greater coffin-joint angle in shod horses compared to unshod horses (p = 0.03). However, no differences were noted between shod and unshod horses for hoof angle, palmar angle, and pastern-joint angle. As the coffin joint acts as a primary shock absorbing mechanism in the horse’s foot, changes in the angle may result in uneven weight distribution, increased pressure, and uneven hoof growth. More research is needed to further assess the effects of horseshoes on internal lower limb angles and performance.