In my opinion: Flatfootedness is a
condition and not a permanent hoof conformation. It can be
corrected. Flatfooted hooves tend to have low grade laminitis and thin
soles from the hooves being out of balance (anterior/posterior balance, not
medial/lateral). This sort of hoof conformation causes the coffin bone to
drop slightly in the hoof capsule (ie., on x-rays the distance between the
hairline and the extensor process of the coffin bone will be 1cm or more) and
the pastern axis is normally broken backward as well. This causes the
laminae to be stressed from the tension and also causes the sole corium and
coffin bone to be bearing more weight than they should. In addition, the
thin soles caused by this condition leave the coffin bone open to bruising and
possible being fractured. It’s a serious situation, especially for
a horse that is being conditioned and/or ridden for endurance.
There are a couple of barefoot groups that
promote this imbalance as the correct way for a horse’s hoof to be
conformed. My guess is that the gal has gotten hooked up with a barefoot
trimmer who doesn’t understand correct hoof
conformation/biomechanics.
Although, my next question would be:
What’s wrong with her wearing boots? If the horses are comfortable
and moving well in the boots, then let them go in boots (if shoeing is not an
option).
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