Changes

The hooves in newborn foals are bilaterally symmetrical. Over a period of just a few months, forces exerted on the hoof during locomotion cause a visible difference between the right and left, as well as front and hind hooves. Thus, isolated specimens of equine feet can be distinguished as follows:

The hooves in newborn foals are bilaterally symmetrical. Over a period of just a few months, forces exerted on the hoof during locomotion cause a visible difference between the right and left, as well as front and hind hooves. Thus, isolated specimens of equine feet can be distinguished as follows:

• Front vs hind:

Front vs hind:

• Front: The angle between the toe and the ground is approximately 45 degrees. The sole is circular in shape.

Front: The angle between the toe and the ground is approximately 45 degrees. The sole is circular in shape.

• Hind: The angle between the toe and the ground is 50-55 degrees. The sole is oval in shape.

Hind: The angle between the toe and the ground is 50-55 degrees. The sole is oval in shape.

• Right vs left:

 

• Quarters (lateral and medial walls) are steeper on the medial side of the hoof.

Right vs left:

Quarters (lateral and medial walls) are steeper on the medial side of the hoof.

Assessment of the external anatomy can be a used as an important part of a lameness examination.  

Assessment of the external anatomy can be a used as an important part of a lameness examination.  

[[File:Lateral_view_horse_foot.jpg]]

[[File:Lateral_view_horse_foot.jpg|thumb|right|150px|]]

===Periople===

===Periople===