A brief description of limb movement is necessary. Also, rear hoof biomechanics effect the movement (biomechanics) of the upper limb perhaps and these alterations in biomechanics can result in lameness. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the common hoof imbalances that have been described in the rear hoof, compare those to the forefoot, discuss the possible pathophysiology and finally discuss the effect these rear hoof imbalances have on lameness of the rear leg.ĭifferent biomechanics exist between the forelimb and rear limb. However, rear limb imbalance and its effect on lameness has largely been ignored. Introduction: The effect of hoof imbalance on fore limb lameness has been well documented. Addressing rear hoof imbalance should be as important to treat or prevent lameness as it is in the front leg. Unlike front feet where these imbalances most commonly cause foot pain, in the rear feet the changed biomechanics cause pain higher up the limb. Take Home Message: Rear hooves may present with broken hoof axis, underrun heels or medial lateral imbalance.
