Scientific Articles
Explore curated research papers, case studies, and educational content on farriery, hoof care, and equine health.
Scientific Articles
Mediolateral Balance of the Equine Foot: A Critical Re-evaluation of Definition and Assessment within a Practical and Mechanistic Clinical Framework
A Structured Evidence Review for the Equine Farriery and Veterinary Professions M. Caldwell*. FWCF; PhD. *Scientific Horseshoeing, 116, Necastle Road, Talke, Staffordshire. ST7 1SA, UK *Corresponding author:mark@scientifichorseshoeing.co.uk Keywords: equine, ML balance, farriery, biomechanics, asses...
HoofFlix TV28 min
Scientific Articles
A Pilot Study to Evaluate a Therapeutic Shoeing System for Laminitis Using a Steward Clog and Hoof Cast
Hircock1, FdSc AWCF; J. Mather1, BSc (Hons) AWCF; M. Caldwell2*, PhD FWCF 1The School of Veterinary Nursing and Farriery, Myerscough College, Billsborrow, Preston, PR3 0RY, UK 2Scientific Horseshoeing, 116, Newcastle Road, Talke, Staffordshire. ST7 1SA *Corresponding author: info@hoofflix.com Keywor...
HoofFlix TV13 min
Scientific Articles
FARRIERY THE QUIET DECLINE
Twenty Years of Change in Farriery and Why It’s On You. A wake-up call to an industry that spent two decades watching the tide go out - and now wonders why it’s standing in the mud. - Stop Waiting for Someone Else to Fix This Let’s cut the pleasantries. If you’ve been in UK farriery for any length o...
HoofFlix TV13 min
Scientific Articles
Suspensory Ligament Desmopathy in the Horse:
Biomechanical Pathophysiology, Diagnostic Integration and the Central Role of Therapeutic Farriery in Rehabilitation Mark Caldwell. PhD., FWCF. HoofFlix at Scientific Horseshoeing. Abstract Suspensory ligament desmopathy (SLD) remains one of the most prevalent performance-limiting conditions in spor...
HoofFlix TV11 min
Scientific Articles
Comparing Hoof Balance Theories: Duckett, Caldwell and Yxklinten
Introduction Hoof balance is a fundamental concern in farriery and equine podiatry. Imbalances in the hoof have long been linked to lameness and even severe injury in horses. Yet, despite general agreement that “balance” is critical, professionals often debate what precisely constitutes a balanced h...
HoofFlix TV15 min
Scientific Articles
Equine Hoof Biomechanics: Practical Insights from Uno Yxklinten’s PhD Research
From Theory to Practice: Applying Hoof Balance Science in Everyday Farriery by Uno Yxklinten’s PhD. Recent advances in hoof biomechanics have provided a clearer, physics-based definition of what a “balanced hoof” actually means. While some explanations have focused heavily on theory, the real value ...
HoofFlix TV19 min
Scientific Articles
Golden ratio proportions in equine hoof capsule geometry: a comparative analysis of front and hind feet
Mitchel D., Balchin P., Fowler S., Caldwell M. Golden ratio in equine hoof geometry. HoofFlix.com Keywords: horse; hoof balance; golden ratio; Kepler triangle; dorsopalmar balance Summary Background: The golden ratio (phi, approximately 1.618) has been identified in numerous biological structures an...
HoofFlix TV12 min
Scientific Articles
To barefoot or not to barefoot that is the question
In this post we discuss the approaches to hoof trimming comparing and contrasting the different approaches that are advocated. If you want to know more check out our myth busters tutorial with Jamie Jackson on HoofFlix Barefoot trimming has become an essential part of modern equine hoof care, with m...
HoofFlix TV8 min
Scientific Articles
REAR WHEEL DRIVE
Mark Caldwell PhD., FWCF In this post we explore Equine Hind Foot Form, Static Balance Proportions, and Limb Alignment: This is a brief overview. When it comes to equine hind foot form and alignment, particularly as it relates to static balance proportions and hind limb dynamics at speed, we are dea...
HoofFlix TV7 min
Scientific Articles
Understanding the Growth of Equine Hoof Epidermal Structures: A Guide for Horse Owners and Enthusiasts
Understanding the Growth of Equine Hoof Epidermal Structures: A Guide for Horse Owners and Enthusiasts As a horse owner or enthusiast, you’ve likely heard plenty about the importance of healthy hooves. After all, a horse's hoof is often referred to as its "foundation"—and like any strong structure, ...
HoofFlix TV8 min
Scientific Articles
Proportional Radiographic Relationships Within the Equine Foot
Proportional Radiographic Relationships Within the Equine Foot Andrew Prout AWCF. Feet First Farriery Limited. Welltown Cottage, Welltown, Cardinham, Bodmin, Cornwall. PL30 4EG Abstract This research investigates proportional radiographic relationships within the equine foot using blinded, randomly ...
HoofFlix TV2 min
Scientific Articles
Recognising and Grading High/Low Limb Conformation in Horses A review for farriery professionals
Stig Haga., Mark Caldwell. Introduction High/low limb conformation — commonly referred to in farriery practice as “high/low hoof syndrome” — describes a consistent asymmetry between paired limbs, most often the forelimbs, where one foot presents with a steeper dorsal hoof wall angle and more upright...
HoofFlix TV8 min
Scientific Articles
Shoe fit, biomechanics, and the limits of hoof horn
The question “Is fit a standard on every horse?” deserves a clear answer: yes. Fit is a fundamental professional standard, not a variable that changes with circumstance. However, understanding why fit matters requires moving beyond outline aesthetics and into biomechanics and material science. Shoe ...
HoofFlix TV4 min
Scientific Articles
A Comprehensive Review of Professor Chris Pollitt’s Contributions to Laminitis Research: Anatomy, Pathophysiology, and Clinical Implications
Caldwell M.N., Madden N,.and Pell C. A review of laminitis research. HoofFlix Scientific. Key words: Word count : 5660 Abstract Laminitis remains one of the most debilitating diseases in the equine population, causing profound pain, loss of function, and in many cases, euthanasia. For decades, it ha...
HoofFlix TV10 min
Education
LAMINITIS: MYTH BUSTER SERIES
Hosted by HoofFlix TV • Sponsored by 3D Vet Anatomize & The 3rd Millennium Company Ltd: Featuring Professor Chris Pollitt Starting Thursday 29 January 2026 Laminitis is one of the most devastating diseases affecting domesticated horses—responsible for the second highestnumber of equine euthanasia ca...
HoofFlix TV6 min
Scientific Articles
The Equine Foot: Shock Absorption and Load Bearing — A Mechanical and Hemodynamic Perspective
Mark N Caldwell PhD; FWCF & Neil Madden FWCF. Info@hoofflx.com Key words: Equine foot, Hoof biomechanics, Shock absorption, Load bearing, Hemodynamic flow, Digital cushion, Frog function, Lateral cartilages, Hoof wall deformation, Viscoelastic properties of horn, Off-axis compression, Hoof capsule m...
HoofFlix TV9 min
Education
They say, “no hoof, no horse.” But… what does good hoof care actually look like?
Practical Solutions for Equine Hoof Care. (HoofFlix Webinar) - If you didn't know who Dr Ogrady is, here's some background & key themes in his work This Thursday, Dr. Steve O’Grady dives into the everyday realities of equine hoof care - what works, what doesn’t, and what’s been misunderstood for far...
HoofFlix TV4 min
Scientific Articles
The Biomechanical Implications of the Full Roller Motion Shoe in the Equine Distal Limb
Biomechanical implications of full roller motion (self-adjusting palmar angle) shoes in equine palmar foot mechanics: theory, tendon and navicular orientation, and vectorial kinetics through stance phase. Author: Mark Caldwell PhD., FWCF., Niel Madden FWCF,. & Ronald Aalders * Scientific Horseshoein...
HoofFlix TV14 min
Scientific Articles
The role of clips in horseshoeing — an expert, practical synopsis
Helbert Barion CJF., San Paulo, Brazil & HoofFlix.CoM. Clips are one of the simplest but most powerful tools a farrier has to stabilise a shoe on the hoof. Used intelligently they protect the horn, reduce nail stress, control shoe migration and help manage break-over and mediolateral stability. Used...
HoofFlix TV9 min
Scientific Articles
The mechanical problem in laminitis. Why would you elevate the heels?
Dr. Mark Caldwell PhD; FWCF. HoofFlix. CoM. following on from what was a most illuminating webinar with Dr. Sammy Pitman DVM we thought we’d try to summarise the benefits of Venography and the theoretical aspects of substantial heel elevation in the treatment of some laminitis cases. We wish to than...
HoofFlix TV5 min
Scientific Articles
An assessment of conformational traits in newborn foals with digital hyperextension conformation
James Hines BSc (Hons), Dip.WCF., Mark Caldwell PhD; FWCF¹. ¹Scientific Horseshoeing, 116, Newcastle Road, Talke, Staffordshire. ST71SA. UK. Phone: +44 (0) 7792374551 Email: info@hoofflix.com Key words; foal, neonatal, flexural deformity, developmental Abstract Introduction. Digital hyperextension c...
HoofFlix TV25 min
Scientific Articles
Sidebone in the Horse: Beyond the Quiet Ossification
Dr. Mark N. Caldwell PhD., F.W.C.F. HoofFlix.CoM Many horse owners, riders, trainers or farriers have heard of sidebone—the ossification of the collateral (ungual) cartilages of the coffin bone. Often it is regarded as an incidental radiographic finding, something to note, but not something that tru...
HoofFlix TV12 min
Scientific Articles
A practical history of barefoot hoof research: what we know, what we don’t, and why context matters 1. Where the modern “barefoot” conversation began
Jaime Jackson was among the first to popularise observations of wild U.S. mustang feet in an arid, abrasive environment. He argued that natural movement over firm ground produced short toes, thick soles, and robust frogs, and that domestic horses might benefit if their living conditions and trims en...
HoofFlix TV6 min
Education
Hoof Health in the Wild: Feral Horses of the Great Basin with Jamie Jackson - HoofFlix.com “Myth Busters”
THIS THURSDAY! Discover the secrets of wild horse hooves in the Great Basin! Join expert Jamie Jackson for vital insights on hoof care & management. Thursday, 11th September, 7 - 9pm GMT+1 Join us for a deep dive into the fascinating world of feral horses and their incredible hoof health with renown...
HoofFlix TV3 min
Scientific Articles
Rethinking Hoof Balance: Testing the Science Behind a Common Trimming Protocol
By Mark Caldwell PhD F.W.C.F Maintaining hoof balance is central to equine soundness and performance. For generations, farriers have relied on inherited traditions and widely accepted principles of hoof balance, but how robust are these methods when put under scientific scrutiny? Recent research has...
HoofFlix TV6 min
Scientific Articles
Seasonal Variation in Equine Hoof Growth and Implications for Traditional Six-Week Shoeing Cycles
Introduction Hoof growth in horses is a dynamic process influenced by systemic metabolism, environmental conditions, and mechanical loading. Farriery has traditionally adhered to a six-week shoeing cycle, an interval widely accepted for maintaining hoof balance and preventing pathological distortion...
HoofFlix TV4 min
Scientific Articles
Sinker” Syndrome in Equine Laminitis: Pathophysiology, Metabolic Changes and Biomechanical Catastrophe
Laminitis remains one of the most devastating conditions in equine medicine, characterised by failure of the suspensory apparatus of the distal phalanx (SADP) and subsequent displacement of the distal phalanx (P3) within the hoof capsule. Among the most catastrophic presentations is “sinker” syndrom...
HoofFlix TV5 min
Scientific Articles
Is dorsal hoof wall resection a misunderstood and under-used hoof capsule management tool in equine laminitis?
Mark N Caldwell., PhD., FWCFScientific Horseshoeing & HoofFlix. TVCorrespondence: info@hoofflix.com Word count (excluding references and abstract): ~5,200 Keywords:Equine laminitis; dorsal hoof wall resection; hoof capsule management; lamellar pathology; founder; farriery; biomechanics Abstract Dors...
HoofFlix TV9 min
Education
Science Shoeing: Practical Solutions for Equine Hoof Care - with Dr. Steve O’Grady - HOOFFLIX Webinar
Join us with Dr. Steve O’Grady on Thursday, 28th August (19:00-21:00 BST) as we explore practical solutions for caring for your horse's hooves! - HOOFFLIX - Online Event Join us for an informative online event with Dr. O'Grady as he shares practical solutions for equine hoof care. Learn from the exp...
HoofFlix TV3 min
Education
“Rear Wheel Drive” with Dr. Tracy Turner - HoofFlix.com “Myth Busters”
“Rear Wheel Drive” with Dr. Tracy Turner (TICKETS HERE) This Thursday, 14th August, 2025. 19:00 - 21:00 BST (Online Event lasting 2 hours) Part of the HoofFlix.com “Myth Busters” collection Webinar Event Overview Join Dr. Tracy Turner in the second of his fascinating webinars for HoofFlix TV for a f...
HoofFlix TV5 min
Scientific Articles
Current Scientific Understanding of Equine Hoof Expansion, Stance Phase Loading, and Conformational Influences
Caldwell M.N., Madden N. HoofFlix.com (info@hoofflix.com) key words; The traditional theory of hoof expansion posits that during weight bearing—particularly mid-stance to terminal stance—the caudal hoof structures, including the quarters and heels, undergo lateral splaying or "expansion" to accommod...
HoofFlix TV6 min
Scientific Articles
The Bare Foot Trim or Standard Farriery Trim - actually what’s the difference?
Barefoot Trimming vs. Certified Farriery: Anatomy, Physiology & Biomechanical Philosophy Mark Caldwell PhD., FWCF 1. Introduction first and foremost this article is by no means a comprehensive analysis of all trimming styles advocated by numerous authors and organisations. Rather, it serves as a gen...
HoofFlix TV5 min
Scientific Articles
Farriery Radiographs & Foot Mapping
Radiographs and Foot Mapping Keep Your Horse’s Hooves Healthy Introduction Maintaining hoof balance is essential for equine soundness. Even superficial hoof issues can mask deeper imbalances within the hoof capsule. Radiographs—commonly X‑rays—provide a window into the bones and soft tissues beneath...
HoofFlix TV5 min
Scientific Articles
Inside the Lamanitic Hoof.
An Investigative Look at Dr. Ric Redden’s Approach to Chronic Laminitis By Mark Caldwell, PhD FWCF Prologue – The Case That Changed Everything Imagine a farriery clinic where veterinarians and farriers work side by side, reviewing radiographs and venograms in real time over Skype. That’s the world R...
HoofFlix TV6 min
Scientific Articles
Back Pain & Foot Pathology is there a Link
Niedhart M., Stockley L., Madden N., James M. HoofFlix.Com 116, Newcastle Road, Talke. ST71SA. email info@hoofflix.com key words: Biomechanics, Anatomy, Kinetic Energy, Potential Energy, Transition, Movement, Gait, Confirmation, Posture, Fascia, Abstract The propulsion of the horse is primarily gene...
HoofFlix TV6 min
Scientific Articles
A Biomechanical and Therapeutic Review of Equine Laminitis
Two-Part EVA Clog System with Advanced Manufacturing Applications Author: Mark Caldwell PhD FWCF. Email: info@hoofflix.com Keywords: equine laminitis; biomechanics; EVA clog; adhesive farriery; 3D printing; P3 displacement; hoof rehabilitation Abstract Equine laminitis is a multifactorial, biomechan...
HoofFlix TV7 min
Scientific Articles
The Equine Foot: A Miracle of Bioengineering
Hemodynamic Shock Absorption During the Stance Phase of Locomotion Caldwell. M. N., Madden. N., & Prout.A. HoofFlix.Com. Email info@hoofflix.com Introduction The equine foot exemplifies masterful biomechanical design, combining anatomical structures and fluid dynamics to absorb and dissipate enormou...
HoofFlix TV5 min
Scientific Articles
Navicular Syndrome in the Horse: Aetiology, Diagnostics, and Multimodal Treatment Strategies Including Farriery Approaches
Caldwell M.N. & Nadden N. HoofFlix. Com., 116, Newcastle Road, Talke, Staffordshire. ST71SA email info@hoofflix.com Abstract Navicular syndrome represents a multifactorial pathology of the equine foot, most commonly affecting sport and leisure horses. Once considered a degenerative condition isolate...
HoofFlix TV7 min
Scientific Articles
The Affects of Artificial Arena Surfaces on Performance
How Arena Surfaces Affect Your Horse’s Movement, Health, and Shoeing Needs Mark N. Caldwell FWCF PhD – HoofFlix / ScientificHorseshoeing.co.uk Introduction Whether you're schooling a dressage test, working cattle, or jumping a course, the surface your horse moves on plays a vital role in how their b...
HoofFlix TV7 min
Scientific Articles
Biomechanical and Clinical Rationale for a Modular Therapeutic Clog System in the Management of Equine Laminitis
Biomechanical and Clinical Rationale for a Modular Therapeutic Clog System in the Management of Equine Laminitis Caldwell M, Madden N and Charnley N. 116, Newcastle Road, Talke, Staffordshire. ST71SA. email info@hoofflix.com Abstract Equine laminitis is a debilitating condition resulting from failur...
HoofFlix TV4 min
Scientific Articles
Biomechanical Rationale for Plantar Heel Extensions in the Management of Chronic Hindlimb Proximal Suspensory Desmopathy
Biomechanical Rationale for Plantar Heel Extensions in the Management of Chronic Hindlimb Proximal Suspensory Desmopathy Caldwell M and Madden N. Scientific Horseshoeing Limited. 116, Newcastle Road, Talke, Staffordshire. ST71SA. Email info@hoofflix.com Introduction Chronic proximal suspensory ligam...
HoofFlix TV5 min
Scientific Articles
Occlusion to the Hoof: Exploring the Link Between Equine Dental Abnormalities, Postural Compensation, and Hoof Capsule Morphology
View Webinar Occlusion to the Hoof: Exploring the Link Between Equine Dental Abnormalities, Postural Compensation, and Hoof Capsule Morphology Stockley. L., Madden. N., Caldwell. M. Scientific Horseshoeing Limited, 116, Newcastle Road, Talke, Staffordshire. ST71SA. Email info@hoofflix.com Abstract E...
HoofFlix TV6 min
Scientific Articles
Suspensory Desmopathy in Horses
Chronic Proximal Suspensory Ligament Desmopathy in Horses: Biomechanics, Postural Adaptation, Hoof Capsule Morphology, and Treatment Strategies Caldwell M. N. Scientific Horseshoeing, 116, Newcastle Road, Talke, Staffordshire. ST7 1SA. Email info@hoofflix.com 1. Introduction Chronic desmopathy of th...
HoofFlix TV6 min
Education
"Science Shoeing: Practical Solutions for Equine Hoof Care - with Dr. Steve O’Grady ” HOOFFLIX Webinar
Join us with Dr. Steve O’Grady on Thursday, 8th May (19:00-21:00 BST) as we explore practical solutions for caring for your horse's hooves! - HOOFFLIX - Online Event Join us for an informative online event with Dr. as he shares practical solutions for equine hoof care. Learn from the expert about th...
HoofFlix TV3 min
Education
Hoof trimming protocols for laminitis - a review
Introduction to Hoof Trimming Protocols in Laminitis Treatment Laminitis is a complex, multifactorial disease, and one of its most concerning consequences is the rotation of the coffin bone (P3) relative to the second phalanx (P2) due to laminar failure. Trimming protocols are widely debated among p...
HoofFlix TV7 min
Education
Myth Busters a hoof care collection
🌟 Tired of the myths surrounding hoof care? 🌟 Join HoofFlix’s 2025 Myth Busters Webinar Series where we team up with world-class hoof care experts to bring you evidence-based insights, debunk common myths, and provide you with actionable knowledge to optimize your horse’s hoof health. If you’re re...
HoofFlix TV5 min
Education
Laminitis
Recent posts on the subject of laminitis appear somewhat misleading and confusing. In this post we set out the lamanitic time line and basic farriery treatment protocols based on the current understanding of the disease process. Equine laminitis is a complex and severe condition affecting the hoof o...
HoofFlix TV6 min
Education
Cadaver Studies Using Mechanical Presses
A recent Post portraying a cadaver limb in a mechanical press and undergoing the loading cycle of the stance phase purported to illustrate differences in physiology of the hoof in differential hoof management scenario. Caution should be exercised when coming to conclusions as to value of such demons...
HoofFlix TV7 min
Education
Continuing on from Frig Engagement Debate
Continuing on from the from the debate on frig engagement: The frog plays a significant role in the equine hoof's biomechanics during the stance phase of locomotion. The latest research delves into its function, examining how it interacts with other hoof structures to support and distribute forces. ...
HoofFlix TV5 min
General
Introducing Equigate
Let the Equigate app take care of all your business admin Tired of cancellations, muddy horses and chasing payments? We’re here to help. Equigate is a revolutionary app designed to […]
Scientific Horseshoeing2 min