FARRIERY: Hoof-pastern axis and foot balance 20 February 2015 Premium

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20 February 2015

Irish Field Contributor on 20 Feb 2015

FARRIERY: Hoof-pastern axis and foot balance

Master farrier Larry Winters explains the importance of getting the HPA correct

Irish Field Contributor

20 February 2015

Fig 1. If the two red lines are parallel, as they are here, it indicates the correct hoof-pastern axis (HPA)

Fig 2. Viewed from the front, this offset HPA can be readily identified and corrective action taken

Fig 3. Broken HPA viewed on X-ray , the low hoof angle is causing the negative palmar angle

Fig 4. An example of asymmetrical HPA caused in this case by the horse exerting more pressure on one hoof while cross-tied

Fig 5.The solar view of this hoof illustrated toe removed, perforated quarter and weak heels

Fig 6. Advances such as digital X-ray greatly assists vets and farriers in achieving the goal of a balanced limb

HOOF-pastern axis (HPA) refers to the arrangement of the equine digits, which are located below the fetlock. It is divided into pastern axis and hoof axis.

A line is taken from the dorsal aspect of the pastern and continues down the dorsal surface of the hoof, there is another line taken from the centre of the fetlock joint that dissects the pastern and coffin joint. If these lines are parallel, the correct HPA angulation occurs (Fig 1).