Physical balance is found not only in the body but also in the hooves.
It may come as a surprise to find out that consistent bodywork and proper hoof care go hand-in-hand. I never gave it much thought either until a speaker at a clinic made mention that bodywork - massage, chiropractic, taping, surefoot pads, BEMER, etc. - are important after a corrective trim. That nugget of knowledge stuck with me and I decided to learn more and dig deeper.
Bodywork and hoof care are two key players in creating a healthy and happy horse. One that can perform at any level and feel good from top to bottom while doing so. Simply put, one needs the other. When imbalances start to pop up, things begin to fall apart. Imbalances in the body occur from lack of balance in the hooves and vice versa as posture and movement influence the hooves. Compensation is now a huge factor as the horse attempts to fix the situation as best they can. The body suffers and performance lags.
In the American Farrier Journal, it is noted that unevenness in the upper body can and usually does affect the shape and function of the hooves. A balanced trim isn’t able to help the horse if there are negative forces in the muscles pulling the leg, and therefore the hoof, out of symmetry. In the same vein, Heavenly Gaits Equine Massage points out that when imbalance happens in the body the feet mirror it through asymmetrical hoof growth.
It is much easier to create a balanced hoof when the muscles and tendons aren’t working against the hoof care professional.
On the other side of the conversation, the condition of the leg/hoof has shown to also play a role on how it affects the body. If the horse struggles with reoccurring hoof pain, lameness, and/or leg injuries, the overall tension, straightness, and self carriage could deteriorate. A properly balanced hoof equals a properly balanced horse.
When it comes to keeping your horse sound and balanced, it is clearly a team effort with the trimmer and the bodyworker collaborating in order to help the horse function at its best from day to day.
Emily
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