The big picture: equine hoof science and lameness

Summary

# Editorial Summary: The Big Picture: Equine Hoof Science and Lameness Jurga Fran's 2018 analysis synthesises peer-reviewed literature on equine hoof biomechanics and pathology to establish how fundamental hoof research translates into practical lameness management. Rather than presenting original data, this review examines existing scientific evidence to contextualise why certain hoof structures, loading patterns and pathological changes matter clinically—bridging the gap between laboratory findings and what farriers, veterinarians and rehabilitation specialists observe in practice. The paper emphasises that understanding the interconnected relationship between hoof morphology, ground interaction forces, and soft tissue loading is essential for preventing and managing lameness, particularly given how poorly many preventable conditions are still identified in field settings. By integrating biomechanical principles with epidemiological patterns, Fran demonstrates that evidence-based hoof care requires moving beyond tradition-based trimming protocols towards interventions grounded in how the hoof actually functions. For equine professionals, this work underscores the value of consulting peer-reviewed research when troubleshooting chronic or recurrent lameness, ensuring that trimming, shoeing, and rehabilitation strategies align with current understanding of hoof loading mechanics rather than perpetuating outdated practices.

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Key Findings

• •Peer-reviewed literature on equine hoof science provides essential perspective for understanding lameness mechanisms
• •Integration of hoof science research findings is necessary for comprehensive lameness evaluation and management

Conditions Studied