Strategic shoeing adjustment is imperative in solving complicated hoof problems while managing distal phalanx rotation in a laminitic horse with sheared heels

Abstract

A 22-year-old gelding pony, diagnosed with bilateral chronic laminitis and sheared heels, underwent strategic shoeing management to solve the complicated hoof problems in both front legs. The left hoof was shoed with a conventional bar shoe with an unsupported toe, while the modified Z-bar shoe with an unsupported toe was applied on the right front hoof. The severity of lameness declined following the application of the two different shoeing styles in which the sheared heel condition was improved only in the right forelimb. Accidental nailing into the compromised medial hoof wall occurred, causing lameness in the right front hoof. Orthopaedic casting tape and the conventional bar shoe with the unsupported toe were applied, decreasing the lameness severity in the affected hoof. Strategic shoeing adjustments are essential in solving complicated hoof problems while managing distal phalanx rotation in a laminitic horse with sheared heels.