NBHCC #7 - Heel Height & Distortions

Episode from the popular hoof care series featured on RFDTV in 2006 & 2007. This episode offers insight into heel distortions that can occur in horse's and how these distortions effect foot function.

[@angiebrummett1915]

The heels grow at the same rate as the rest of the hoof. So with the extra pressure, they do "run forward" with the toe because of the natural growth and pressure of landing. The best idea of how the internal structures are is to look BEFORE TRIMMING at the levelness of the hairline to determine where there is excess of pressure as the cornet band will bend upward with the pressure. and curl under with the run forward heels. Relieve the pressure (if long enough, the hoof exfoliates wall with that pressure). The run forward heels should be addressed but to take them down past the height of the frog is over pressurizing them. Measure the length before trimming and remember generally the heels should be 1" to 2" equally in height. If one MEASURED heel is longer/higher, look to level out the cornet band as if there was a measuring level set on the bulbs of the hoof.

[@judymiller5154]

my navicular mare has been lamed repeatedly by having her under-run heels cut back to the widest part of the frog. I had her xrayed pre-trim and found a level PA. I have fired all the farriers, she is barefoot and, at 77, I'm trimming her myself! Take lots of toe, good breakover, leave heels, ease the quarters, leave the dirt pack alone (just check for thrush every few weeks). Its been months, but her heels are less crushed and even self-trimmed a bit thru the wet winter, yet she is sound trotting in the pen!! 💪

[@angiebrummett1915]

@@judymiller5154 SuperWoman! I hope I am still caring for my horses at 77!

[@judymiller5154]

@@angiebrummett1915 use it or lose it, girlfriend 😁 My diet is super low carb, what's called keto-vore: mostly animal foods with some vegs now and then. Mostly stay active, try new things, push to your limits. God bless ❤️🙏❤️

[@juliamarple3058]

Thank you very much. very informative and helpful. I wish my farrier would take some lessons from you...

[@hyperfocus2011]

Wow

[@hyperfocus2011]

Took a long enough time to admit barefoot naturally is better than shoes!!!