Experiences with the use of wedge soles in the treatments of hoof and limb imbalance
Authors: Poynton
Journal: FWCF Fellowship Thesis
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Wedge Sole Applications for Hoof and Limb Imbalance Poynton's 1996 case series evaluated wedge sole shoeing as a targeted intervention for horses presenting with hoof-pastern axis deviation and medio-lateral imbalance, conditions that commonly compromise performance and predispose to degenerative changes. Two distinct techniques were developed and refined across ten cases: Method A addressed broken back angles through straight heel-to-toe wedging, whilst Method B tackled coronal plane imbalance using 45° rotated wedge placement, with both approaches supported by Stockholm tar and cotton wool padding to maintain solar health between shoeings. Observable improvements in hoof balance emerged within the first shoeing cycle, with significant measurable correction typically evident by the third reset, suggesting relatively rapid tissue adaptation to corrected loading mechanics. The author advocates for broad-webbed shoes to optimise load distribution, consistent 4–6 week intervals to sustain alignment gains, and systematic assessment using a T-bar with protractor head to objectively quantify medio-lateral deviation. For farriers managing chronic imbalance cases, these techniques offer a practical, evidence-based protocol with defined application parameters—though practitioners should note this represents a detailed case series rather than a randomised controlled trial, warranting clinical verification within their own caseloads before wholesale adoption.
Practical Takeaways
- •Implement wedge sole shoeing with Stockholm tar and cotton wool padding as a first-line treatment for hoof and limb imbalances, with visible results typically appearing within one to three shoeings
- •Use broad-webbed shoes and maintain 4-6 week shoeing intervals to optimize load distribution, frog support, and treatment response
- •Apply the appropriate wedge method based on imbalance type: straight heel-to-toe placement for dorsal hoof-pastern axis issues, and 45° rotated wedges for medio-lateral imbalance; verify medio-lateral balance with a T-bar and protractor head
Key Findings
- •Wedge soles with Stockholm tar and cotton wool padding produced superior outcomes compared to conventional shoeing for treating hoof and limb imbalances in adult horses
- •Method A (straight heel-to-toe wedge) corrected broken back hoof-pastern axis; Method B (45° rotated wedge) corrected medio-lateral imbalance
- •Marked improvements in hoof balance were evident within the first three shoeing cycles