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What Is Hoof Balance? A Scientific, Peer-Reviewed Guide
Hoof balance describes how the shape and alignment of the hoof work with the internal structures of the foot and lower limb during standing and movement. This evidence-based guide explains static and dynamic balance, center of pressure, mediolateral and toe-to-heel loading, breakover, trimming, footing, and why a balanced hoof cannot be defined by perfect symmetry or one universal formula.

Horse Education Online
21 min read


Understanding Forging in Horses: Causes, Biomechanics, Rider Influences, and Management
Forging is often first noticed as a "clicking" sound when the horse moves. It occurs when the toe of a hind hoof strikes the underside or shoe of the forefoot. Learn how hoof proportions, conformation, lameness, rider balance, saddle fit, fatigue, footing, and neurological coordination can affect limb timing, how forging differs from overreaching, and when to involve a farrier or veterinarian.

Horse Education Online
19 min read


Understanding Crossfiring: the most misunderstood gait fault.
Crossfiring is a specific gait fault that is often misunderstood. Many horse owners and trainers mistakenly label gait irregularities as "crossfiring", leading to confusion and sometimes incorrect training approaches. Learn how to recognize crossfiring with this article.

Horse Education Online
8 min read


The Equine Stifle: Anatomy and Function
Learn the anatomy and function of the equine stifle, and its importance to soundness and performance

Horse Education Online
7 min read


Is it Hock, Stifle, or Back Pain? How to Tell the Difference
Hind limb lameness in horses is frequently attributed to the hock, stifle or back, but what are the symptoms and how do we determine which area is causing the lameness?

Horse Education Online
5 min read


Splint Bone Injuries, an Advanced Overview
Learn everything there is to know about splint bones, from their anatomy to possible injuries and their symptoms.

Horse Education Online
7 min read


Evidence Based Horse Shoeing in Healthy Feet
Learn the biomechanical principles that govern hoof landing, impact forces, and breakover mechanics.

Horse Education Online
6 min read


13 Reasons Why...Your Horse Stumbles
Does your horse stumble in lessons? Has your trainer told you to tell your farrier to “roll” or “rocker” the toes on your horse’s shoes? Does your horse still stumble? Can your farrier do anything to actually fix it? There are several reasons why a horse may stumble. Before attempting to mechanically “fix” the issue by making changes to your horse’s feet, you must identify the cause of the problem. The following is a comprehensive list of causes that should be considered befo

Horse Education Online
7 min read
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