Association between radiographic equine distal phalanx characteristics and absence, presence and type of horseshoes.
Authors: Ennsmann Lisa Henrietta, Licka Theresia Franziska
Journal: Frontiers in veterinary science
Summary
# Editorial Summary Clip design in horseshoes may influence the structural geometry of the distal phalanx, though the magnitude of these changes remains modest. Ennsmann and Licka analysed Oxspring radiographs from 137 warmblood horses and 43 ponies (aged 3–28 years), measuring bone density and shape of the distal phalanx across three clip support configurations: unshod, shoes with two dorsoabaxial clips, and shoes with a single dorsal clip. Distal phalanges from hooves shod with dorsoabaxial clips demonstrated significantly narrower proportions relative to their length (width-to-length ratio of 1.31) compared to those wearing single dorsal clips (1.40), whilst unshod hooves showed intermediate geometry (1.37) that did not differ significantly from either shod group. The clinical relevance of this 7 per cent difference in phalangeal geometry warrants consideration when selecting shoeing systems, particularly for horses with predisposition to distal phalanx remodelling; however, practitioners should interpret these radiographic findings within the broader context of individual hoof quality, movement biomechanics, and presenting pathology rather than as an isolated basis for shoeing choice.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Shoe clip placement (dorsoabaxial vs. dorsal) has measurable effects on distal phalanx shape—dorsoabaxial clips produce narrower bones—consider these morphological changes when selecting shoes for individual horses
- •Unshod hooves maintain bone geometry intermediate between the two clip types, suggesting neither clip style is 'natural' but shoeing choice will influence long-term bone adaptation
- •These radiographic differences should inform farriery decisions, particularly for horses with existing distal phalanx concerns or those transitioning between shoeing types
Key Findings
- •Hooves shod with dorsoabaxial clips showed significantly lower width-to-length ratio (median 1.31) compared to dorsal clip shoes (median 1.40, p<0.001)
- •Unshod hooves had intermediate width-to-length ratio (median 1.37) not significantly different from either shod group
- •Distal phalanx bone density varied at clip positions (dorsomedial, dorsal, dorsolateral) depending on shoeing type
- •Age, breed, and use were examined as variables affecting distal phalanx morphology in relation to shoeing