FOOT BALANCE
3
EQUINE MATTERS
Equine
foot
balance
It is a term used to describe the
appearance of each foot and in
particular, its size and shape. It also
relates to how the foot dynamically
functions and interacts with the ground
i.e. how it lands and takes off again.
Conformation is often discussed in
association with foot balance and is a
slightly different concept. It relates to the
shape and size of the individual parts of
the limb and how they relate to each other.
Ideally we want each foot to have a
conformation that maximises its mechanical
efficiency and if optimal, we could describe
that foot as being balanced. In the adult
horse, conformation cannot be manipulated
or changed but balance can, so with
appropriate trimming and shoeing, good
balance can generally be achieved in
most horses.
As a result of repetitive stresses in the foot
i.e. repeated contact with the ground, injuries
to the foot can occur and lameness will
frequently result. Poor foot balance will
contribute to these stresses and lameness is
more likely to occur. By recognising poor
foot balance and conformation problems
early we can take action to reduce the risk
of avoidable lameness in your horse.
It is important to consider foot balance as
a three-dimensional concept. We describe
the three dimensions separately using the
mediolateral (side) view, dorsopalmar/
plantar (front to back) view and the solar
(sole of the foot) view. When discussing
balance these views are normally described
separately although it is important to
understand that a change in one plane
will influence and alter the others.
It is important to assess balance while the
horse is standing still (static foot balance)
as well as when the horse is in motion
walking and trotting away and towards
you (dynamic foot balance).
Graham Hunter BVM&S CertEP CertAVP(ESO) MRCVS,
Ardene House Vet Practice Ltd
Veterinary surgeon
Graham Hunter
XLEquine practice
Ardene House Vet
Practice Ltd
What do we mean when we
use the term foot balance?
