Problems I have found in horses feet and methods of shoeing
Authors: Stern, P.J.
Journal: FWCF Fellowship Thesis
Summary
# Editorial Summary Over five years of clinical farriery practice, Stern documented the presentation and shoeing management of four major hoof conditions affecting horses, providing evidence-based guidance grounded in repeated case observation rather than controlled trials. Acute laminitis cases characteristically presented with sole prolapse and white line separation at the toe—findings that directed therapeutic approach towards heart bar shoes offering full heel support and rolled toe design to relieve pressure at the toe. Club foot in foals responded favourably to early intervention combining heel trimming, tip application, and structured exercise protocols, with timely treatment preventing secondary joint complications that compromise long-term soundness. Deep-seated abscesses frequently demanded aggressive management including sectional wall removal for adequate cavity drainage, yet horses managed through this protocol returned successfully to work, suggesting that drainage completeness outweighs cosmetic considerations in recovery. Navicular disease benefited from graduated concave shoes with rolled edges and meticulous nail placement to avoid palmar pressure—principles that remain applicable to modern farriery practice where prophylactic shoeing strategies can delay or prevent mechanical breakdown in predisposed individuals.
Practical Takeaways
- •For acute laminitis cases, implement heart bar shoes with full heel support immediately and avoid any toe pressure to prevent further sole damage
- •Address club foot early in foals using tips and heel reduction combined with exercise management—delay risks permanent joint complications
- •Deep abscesses may need sectional hoof wall removal for complete drainage; don't shy away from aggressive treatment as horses return to work successfully with proper follow-up
Key Findings
- •Acute laminitis presents with sole dropping and white line separation at the toe, treated with rolled toe shoes and heel support
- •Club foot in foals improves with heel trimming, tip application, and controlled exercise protocols
- •Deep seated abscesses require extensive wall removal and cavity drainage, with successful return to work outcomes
- •Navicular disease responds to graduated concave shoes with rolled edges and proper nail fit