09/05/2026
🔗Oh my! You just been told after x-rays that your horse needs angle adjustments….Do you understand what improper hoof angles do biomechanically?
🔗The most common condition is negative plantar (hind feet)/ palmar (front feet)angles. Some horses just naturally grow difficult feet. Chronic imbalance is more often tied to farrier work that isn’t actively trimming or shoeing for proper balance and support.
🔗Let’s explain plantar and palmar angles. Refers to the angle of the coffin bone within the hoof capsule.
📍Positive Angle—the tip of the coffin bone tips slightly downward.
📍Zero Angle—the coffin bone sits parallel to the ground.
📍Negative Angle—the tip of the coffin bone tips slightly upward. (Photo)
đź”—Positive angle is ideal.
🔗When the angle is “off” the entire biomechanics of the horse is changed and can lead to :
đź“ŤStrain on the Deep Digital Flexor Tendon
đź“ŤIncreased tension on the suspensory ligament
đź“ŤAltered mechanics of the joint.
đź“ŤWeight distribution interrupted.
đź”—Plantar Negative Angle Issues (hind feet)
đź“ŤLameness
đź“ŤDecreased willingness to engage
đź“ŤLack of collection
đź“ŤReluctance to back
đź“ŤHock and stifle issues
đź“ŤChronic suspensory issues
đź”—Palmar Negative Angle (front feet)
đź“ŤChoppy stride
đź“ŤLanding toe first
đź“ŤOn and off lameness
🔗Hoof imbalance effects every joint, muscle, tendon, and ligament above the hoof. If not corrected it’s a domino effect that will continue causing injury that could turn permanent.
đź”—Your farrier should be willing to work with us to make the necessary changes. đź”—There are options for every horse: barefoot, shoes, corrective shoes, composites, glue ons and frog support.
đź”—The hoof is your horses foundation let us work with you to make is strong and lasting!
