- FAQ's > The Hoof Mechanism and How the Hoof Works
The hoof flexes in almost every direction.
The hoof is in a constant cycle of growth and wear.
The hoof responds to it's environment.
The hoof is affected by the health of the horse.
The hoof absorbs upto 70% of the concussion of the horse hitting the ground.
23> The Hoof Mechanism
There are many theories on the hoof mechanism but unfortunately the research is still ongoing. The truth is that we are still learning more about this amazing structure.
Here is an outline of the basic hoof mechanism as we know it:
1) The hoof is placed on the ground.
2) The weight of the horse decends down through the bones of the limb and into P3. Through the lamina connection between P3 and the hoof capsule distorts, the heels open and the sole flattens. This momentarily increases the size of the hoof and blood is sucked in.
3) The frog and coronet band work together. The frog is pushed flat by the weight of the horse which pulls the coronet band tight around the top of the hoof compressing the blood inside the capsule. The decending of the fetlock also adds to the compressing of this blood.
4) As the horse then moves forward the back of the hoof starts to lift from the ground. The sole and frog ping back up, the heels ping back together, the coronet band releases it's grip and the compressed blood is shot back up the leg.
This mechanism is responsible for supplying the lower limb with blood, essential for flushing out toxins and bringing nutrients to this area of the horse. Proper circulation is essential for elasticity of the tendons and ligaments.