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In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, Marc Jerram takes an in-depth look at the suspensory ligaments of the lower limb, exploring teir anatomy, function, common injury patterns, and most importantly the farriery principles that influence both injury risk and rehabilitation. Suspensory and navicular-related injuries remain one of the most common causes of chronic lameness and loss of performance across sport and leisure horses. This episode is designed to give farriers a clear working understanding of how hoof balance, trimming and shoeing decisions directly affect these structures, and how to work effectively alongside the veterinary surgeon during diagnosis and rehabilitation. 🎧 What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why the suspensory apparatus is a critical load-bearing and energy-storing systemThe evolutionary anatomy of the suspensory ligament and its functional implicationsKey anatomical differences between front and hind limb suspensory ligamentsHow the muscular component of the hind limb suspensory influences performance and injury presentationThe role of the navicular suspensory structures, including the impar and collateral ligamentsHow hoof conformation, toe length and heel height affect suspensory and navicular loadingCommon suspensory injuries:Proximal suspensory desmitisMid-body and branch lesionsNavicular suspensory injuriesWhy front limb injuries often present as lameness, while hind limb injuries present as performance problemsDiagnostic tools explained:Palpation and gait assessmentUltrasonographyRadiographyMRI and its role in distal limb soft tissue diagnosisRecognising altered gait patterns associated with suspensory painEvidence-based trimming principles for suspensory rehabilitationShoe selection strategies for:Front limb suspensory injuriesHind limb suspensory injuriesNavicular suspensory pathologyThe importance of farrier–veterinary collaboration throughout rehabilitation🧠 Key Takeaways for Farriers Small changes in hoof balance and breakover can significantly alter suspensory strainFront and hind limbs must be approached very differently in both assessment and shoeingSuspensory injuries are rarely just a “rest and hope” problem—mechanics matterCorrect trimming and shoeing can reduce reinjury risk and support long-term soundnessOngoing reassessment is essential as the horse moves through rehabilitation phases🛠️ Who This Episode Is For Registered and apprentice farriersEquine podiatristsVeterinary surgeons working with lameness casesTherapists involved in rehabilitationHorse owners wanting a deeper understanding of suspensory injuriesSupport the show To order your hardback copy of The Hoofcare Companion visit: Store | thefarrier For an eBook version visit here: The Hoofcare Companion (eBook Edition) eBook : Jerram, Marc: Amazon.co.uk: Books

Medio-lateral balance is one of the most influential and most misunderstood principles in farriery. In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, we explore what medio-lateral balance really means, why visual symmetry can be misleading, and how poor balance contributes to long term lameness and pathology. Marc explores how farriers should assess medio-lateral balance both statically and dynamically, explains how conformation dictates loading patterns, and discusses why trimming and shoeing decisions must always respect the horse’s functional anatomy. From long-axis assessment of the forelimb and hindlimb to the role of radiography in modern farriery, this episode provides practical, evidence based insight for working farriers, students, and equine professionals alike. ⏱️ Episode Chapters / Key Topics What medio-lateral balance really means in farrieryCommon misconceptions around “level” feetWhy functional balance matters more than visual symmetryStatic assessment: what to observe before lifting the footUsing the coronary band, hoof capsule, and growth patterns as indicatorsAssessing medio-lateral balance through the long axisDynamic assessment at walk and trotUnderstanding landing patterns, stance phase, and breakoverHow discipline and surface influence medio-lateral forcesConformational faults and their impact on hoof loadingToe-in, toe-out, base narrow, and base wide horses explainedThe role of radiography in accurate balance assessmentForelimb assessment and weight-bearing considerationsHindlimb assessment and propulsion-related imbalancesPathologies linked to chronic medio-lateral imbalanceTrimming strategies: restraint, precision, and gradual correctionShoeing options for managing imbalanceBar shoes, spiral lifts, pads, and frog support explainedLong-term management versus short-term correctionKey take-home messages for farriers and hoofcare professionals🎯 Who This Episode Is For Working farriersFarriery apprentices and studentsEquine vets and therapistsEducators and exam candidatesHorse owners interested in hoof biomechanics🧠 Key Takeaways Medio-lateral balance is functional, not cosmeticVisual symmetry does not always equal correct loadingConformation dictates how forces travel through the limbLong-axis assessment is critical for accurate evaluationRadiography can reveal hidden imbalances within the footOver-correction can be as damaging as no correctionSmall, incremental changes produce the best long-term outcomes🔧 Practical Skills Covered Static and dynamic balance assessmentLong-axis limb evaluationIdentifying compensatory hoof distortionsInterpreting wear patterns and landing preferencesSelecting appropriate trimming and shoeing strategiesSupport the show To order your hardback copy of The Hoofcare Companion visit: Store | thefarrier For an eBook version visit here: The Hoofcare Companion (eBook Edition) eBook : Jerram, Marc: Amazon.co.uk: Books

Hoof wall cracks are one of the most commonly encountered yet frequently misunderstood conditions in equine hoof care. In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, Marc Jerram takes an in-depth look at hoof wall cracks, breaking down the different types, why they occur, how they affect soundness, and how farriers and veterinarians can work together to manage them effectively. From superficial cosmetic defects to painful, performance-limiting cracks, this episode explains how hoof anatomy, biomechanics, trimming, shoeing, environment, and nutrition all play a role. Listeners will gain a clearer understanding of how to assess cracks both statically and dynamically, when veterinary diagnostics are required, and what realistic long-term outcomes look like. Whether you’re a farrier, veterinary professional, student, or an owner wanting a deeper understanding of hoof health, this episode provides practical, evidence-based insight grounded in real-world hoof care. What You’ll Learn in This Episode In this episode, we discuss: What hoof wall cracks are and why they developThe anatomy and biomechanics of the hoof wallVertical versus horizontal hoof wall cracksComplete and incomplete cracks explainedSensitive and non-sensitive cracks and their clinical relevanceToe cracks and quarter cracks: why location mattersCommon mechanical, environmental, nutritional, and pathological causesRecognising clinical signs and indicators of painStatic visual assessment of hoof wall cracksDynamic assessment and how movement influences crack progressionWhen and why veterinary diagnostics are requiredTrimming principles for managing cracked hoovesShoeing strategies to stabilise and unload the hoof capsuleLong-term management strategies and realistic prognosisWho This Episode Is For This episode is particularly relevant for: Registered and apprentice farriersEquine veterinarians and vet nursesFarriery and equine science studentsHoof care professionalsOwners managing horses with recurring hoof wall issuesKey Takeaway Hoof wall cracks are rarely a simple surface problem. Effective management depends on understanding hoof biomechanics, identifying the underlying causes, and applying consistent, long-term farriery and management strategies rather than short-term cosmetic fixes. Support the show To order your hardback copy of The Hoofcare Companion visit: Store | thefarrier For an eBook version visit here: The Hoofcare Companion (eBook Edition) eBook : Jerram, Marc: Amazon.co.uk: Books

In this Christmas Special of The Hoofcare Companion, host Marc Jerram reflects on the demands of elite racehorse farriery while thanking listeners for their incredible support throughout 2025. This episode takes a deep dive into the specialised art and science of shoeing the Thoroughbred racehorse — an athlete operating at the absolute limits of biomechanical performance. From breed-specific hoof challenges to trimming protocols, shoe selection, and the key differences between flat and National Hunt racing, this episode brings together practical farriery insight with evidence-based understanding. Whether you’re working on the track, in training yards, or managing performance horses in other disciplines, this episode highlights how precision hoofcare underpins soundness, performance, and career longevity. 🎙️ What You’ll Hear in This Episode Why racehorse farriery is different Understanding the extreme forces placed on the hoof at racing speeds and why small errors can have major consequences.Thoroughbred hoof characteristics Thin walls, shallow soles, long pasterns, and how selective breeding for speed influences hoof integrity and injury risk.Static & dynamic hoof assessment The importance of evaluating balance, hoof–pastern axis, landing patterns, breakover, and how movement reveals issues unseen at rest.Conservative trimming protocols Why horn preservation is critical in racehorses and how functional balance matters more than cosmetic symmetry.Shoes & shoeing strategies Aluminium vs steel shoes, toe clips, breakover modifications, heel support, and surface-specific considerations.Flat racing vs National Hunt shoeing Key differences in speed, endurance, traction, durability, and how shoeing strategies adapt between disciplines.Common Thoroughbred foot problems Thin soles, underrun heels, white line disease, poor horn quality, and how farriery plays a preventative role.Collaboration in elite hoofcare The importance of teamwork between farrier, veterinarian, and trainer in managing soundness and performance.🎄 Christmas Message Marc also takes a moment to thank listeners, guests, and supporters for being part of The Hoofcare Companion throughout 2025, wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and all the best for a sound, successful, and progressive 2026. 🎧 Who This Episode Is For Farriers working with racehorses or performance horsesEquine veterinarians and studentsTrainers and industry professionalsAnyone interested in elite hoof biomechanics and applied farriery📌 Subscribe & Support If you’ve enjoyed The Hoofcare Companion this year, please subscribe, share the podcast with colleagues, and leave a review — your support helps keep evidence-based hoofcare conversations moving forward. Support the show To order your hardback copy of The Hoofcare Companion visit: Store | thefarrier For an eBook version visit here: The Hoofcare Companion (eBook Edition) eBook : Jerram, Marc: Amazon.co.uk: Books

In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, we take a look into one of the most fundamental yet often misunderstood concepts in farriery and hoof care: the hoof pastern axis. Using anatomy, biomechanics, and real world farriery principles, this episode explains what a normal hoof pastern axis looks like, why it matters for soundness and performance, and how broken back and broken forward alignments affect the horse over time. We explore how trimming and shoeing choices influence internal structures, why visual assessment alone can be misleading, and how radiographs have transformed modern hoof care decision making. This episode is essential listening for farriers, veterinarians, and hoof care professionals who want to improve long term outcomes rather than chase cosmetic balance. What You Will Learn in This Episode In this episode we cover what the hoof pastern axis actually represents anatomically and biomechanically and why it is more than just a straight line on the side of the foot. We explain how the alignment of the pastern bones and distal phalanx influences load distribution through joints tendons and ligaments during movement. You will learn how a normal hoof pastern axis supports efficient locomotion shock absorption and tendon function and why there is no single ideal hoof angle that suits every horse. We also discuss why breed type discipline and individual conformation must always be considered when assessing alignment. The episode breaks down the broken back hoof pastern axis in detail including how long toes and low or underrun heels develop over time and why this alignment places increased strain on the deep digital flexor tendon navicular apparatus and suspensory structures. We discuss the early warning signs farriers should look for and the long term consequences if the imbalance is left unaddressed. We also explore the broken forward hoof pastern axis including upright and club foot type presentations and why aggressive heel lowering can sometimes do more harm than good. The episode explains how concussion loading changes in these feet and why some horses cope better than others depending on workload and surface. Finally we look at how to balance conformation function and intervention using radiographs dynamic assessment and collaborative work between farrier and veterinarian to support soundness rather than force visual ideals. Who This Episode Is For This episode is designed for professional farriers apprentice farriers equine veterinarians veterinary nurses and serious horse owners who want a deeper understanding of hoof biomechanics. It is particularly relevant for those working with performance horses managing chronic foot issues or looking to improve long term soundness through evidence based hoof care. Key Discussion Themes The anatomical definition and function of the hoof pastern axis Why external hoof appearance does not always reflect internal alignment The biomechanical differences between normal broken back and broken forward axes How trimming and shoeing influence tendon and joint loading The role of radiographs in modern farrSupport the show To order your hardback copy of The Hoofcare Companion visit: Store | thefarrier For an eBook version visit here: The Hoofcare Companion (eBook Edition) eBook : Jerram, Marc: Amazon.co.uk: Books

In this episode, we explore Angular Limb Deformities (ALDs) in foals—one of the most important developmental challenges faced by breeders, farriers, and equine veterinarians. These early-life limb deviations can influence a horse’s long-term soundness, athletic potential, and overall welfare. This conversation unpacks what ALDs are, how they develop, how to diagnose them, and the full spectrum of modern treatment options. • What Are Angular Limb Deformities? Definitions of valgus and varus deviationsCommonly affected joints: carpus, fetlock, tarsusWhy early identification is crucial• The Anatomy Behind ALDs The role of growth plates (physes) in young foalsHow asymmetric growth creates crooked limbsWhy mild carpal valgus in newborns is often normal—and when it isn’t• Causes and Risk Factors We explore both congenital and acquired causes, including: Incomplete ossification in premature or dysmature foalsTrauma to physes and soft tissue supportRapid growth rates and mineral imbalancesEnvironmental loading factors (footing, trimming)Genetic predisposition in certain lines• Clinical Signs to Look For How to assess a foal from the front and rearDistinguishing true ALDs from rotational issuesSubtle signs that deformities are worseningConsequences of leaving ALDs untreated• Diagnostic Tools Radiography as the gold standardWhat imaging reveals about deviation severity and growth potentialWhen ultrasonography adds value• Conservative Management Strategies How controlled exercise helps (and when it doesn’t)Corrective trimming principles for valgus and varusUse of extensions, glue-ons, and wedgesThe importance of balanced young-stock nutrition• Surgical Options for Moderate–Severe ALDs Periosteal stripping: When it works and why age mattersTransphyseal bridging: How implants guide growth correctionRare but possible: osteotomy for severe late-stage cases• Prognosis & Long-Term Outlook Which cases resolve on their ownAge-related windows for effective correctionPotential long-term issues if treatment is delayedRealistic athletic expectations for corrected foals• Prevention & Early Monitoring Managing the pregnant mare’s dietFooting, exercise, and early handlingWeekly limb assessments in the first monthThe importance of vet–farrier collaboration📚 Key Takeaways ALDs are common but highly treatable when identified early.Farriery, nutrition, management, and veterinary intervention form a single, coordinated system.With early correction, most foals enjoy excellent long-term soundness.📖 References This episode draws on established research by Adams & Stashak, O’Grady & Poupard, Ralston, Redding & O’Grady, Santschi et al., and Support the show To order your hardback copy of The Hoofcare Companion visit: Store | thefarrier For an eBook version visit here: The Hoofcare Companion (eBook Edition) eBook : Jerram, Marc: Amazon.co.uk: Books

In this episode, we explore how the major dietary macrominerals calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, sodium, chloride, and sulphur shape the health of the equine hoof from the inside out. We break down the biological roles of each mineral, their influence on keratin formation, circulation, immune function, and inflammation control, and how imbalances can lead to structural hoof defects or systemic health issues. What You’ll Learn: How calcium supports keratinisation and immune cell signallingWhy the calcium–phosphorus ratio is crucial for healthy hoof developmentThe role of magnesium in keratin production, stress regulation, and inflammation controlPotassium’s importance in fluid balance, vascular function, and immune activationWhy sodium and chloride deficiency is common and how it affects hydration, circulation, and immunitySulphur’s essential role in keratin strength and antioxidant processesHow macromineral imbalances contribute to conditions such as laminitis, poor hoof horn quality, and systemic inflammationPractical feeding considerations and when supplementation may be beneficialKey Takeaway: Hoof health doesn’t begin at the hoof, it begins in the diet. Understanding macrominerals empowers farriers, vets, and horse owners to support stronger hooves, better immunity, and reduced inflammation through informed nutritional management. Support the show To order your hardback copy of The Hoofcare Companion visit: Store | thefarrier For an eBook version visit here: The Hoofcare Companion (eBook Edition) eBook : Jerram, Marc: Amazon.co.uk: Books

 In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, host Marc Jerram explores one of the most significant yet often misunderstood hoof injuries — pedal bone fractures. Joined by expert insights from veterinary and farriery perspectives, Marc breaks down how these fractures occur, how they’re classified, and the latest approaches to diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation. Listeners will gain a clear understanding of the vital role of radiography, therapeutic shoeing, and owner management during recovery, as well as how farriers and vets can work together to support long term soundness. Whether you’re a farrier, vet, or dedicated horse owner, this episode delivers practical knowledge you can apply in the field.  Support the show To order your hardback copy of The Hoofcare Companion visit: Store | thefarrier For an eBook version visit here: The Hoofcare Companion (eBook Edition) eBook : Jerram, Marc: Amazon.co.uk: Books

 En este episodio de The Hoofcare Companion, el presentador Marc Jerram analiza una de las lesiones del casco más importantes pero a menudo mal comprendidas: las fracturas del hueso pedial. Con la participación de expertos en veterinaria y herrería, Marc explica cómo se producen estas fracturas, cómo se clasifican y cuáles son los métodos más recientes para su diagnóstico, tratamiento y rehabilitación. Los oyentes descubrirán la importancia de la radiografía, el herraje terapéutico y la gestión del propietario durante la recuperación, además de cómo la colaboración entre herradores y veterinarios es clave para lograr una recuperación completa. Un episodio imprescindible para herradores, veterinarios y propietarios de caballos que desean profundizar en el cuidado del casco equino.  Support the show To order your hardback copy of The Hoofcare Companion visit: Store | thefarrier For an eBook version visit here: The Hoofcare Companion (eBook Edition) eBook : Jerram, Marc: Amazon.co.uk: Books

 In questo episodio di The Hoofcare Companion, il conduttore Marc Jerram approfondisce uno degli infortuni più importanti ma spesso fraintesi del piede equino: le fratture dell’osso pedale. Con il contributo di esperti in veterinaria e mascalcia, Marc spiega come si verificano queste fratture, la loro classificazione e i più recenti metodi di diagnosi, trattamento e riabilitazione. Gli ascoltatori scopriranno l’importanza della radiografia, della ferratura terapeutica e della gestione del proprietario durante la guarigione, oltre al ruolo cruciale della collaborazione tra veterinari e maniscalchi. Un episodio ricco di informazioni pratiche per professionisti del settore e proprietari di cavalli che desiderano comprendere meglio la salute del piede equino.  Support the show To order your hardback copy of The Hoofcare Companion visit: Store | thefarrier For an eBook version visit here: The Hoofcare Companion (eBook Edition) eBook : Jerram, Marc: Amazon.co.uk: Books

 In this episode, we explore coffin joint arthritis, a common yet complex cause of lameness in horses. Discover how this degenerative joint condition affects performance, and how diagnostic tools like nerve blocks, radiographs, and advanced imaging guide precise farriery and veterinary treatment. We discuss trimming and shoeing strategies to relieve joint stress, supportive therapies such as joint injections and biologics, and practical owner management tips including exercise, environment, and nutrition. A must-listen for farriers, vets, and horse owners aiming to keep horses comfortable and sound.  Support the show To order your hardback copy of The Hoofcare Companion visit: Store | thefarrier For an eBook version visit here: The Hoofcare Companion (eBook Edition) eBook : Jerram, Marc: Amazon.co.uk: Books

 En este episodio abordamos la artritis de la articulación del casco, una causa frecuente y compleja de cojera en los caballos. Analizamos cómo esta enfermedad degenerativa afecta el rendimiento y cómo herramientas diagnósticas como los bloqueos nerviosos, las radiografías y la imagen avanzada ayudan a planificar tratamientos precisos de herraje y veterinaria. También exploramos las estrategias de recorte y herraje para aliviar el estrés articular, las terapias de apoyo como las inyecciones intraarticulares y los biológicos, y los consejos de manejo diario relacionados con el ejercicio, el entorno y la nutrición. Un episodio esencial para herradores, veterinarios y propietarios que buscan mejorar la comodidad y el bienestar del caballo.  Support the show To order your hardback copy of The Hoofcare Companion visit: Store | thefarrier For an eBook version visit here: The Hoofcare Companion (eBook Edition) eBook : Jerram, Marc: Amazon.co.uk: Books

 In questo episodio analizziamo l’artrite dell’articolazione del piede—una delle principali cause di zoppia nei cavalli. Scopri come questa condizione degenerativa influisce sulle prestazioni e come strumenti diagnostici come i blocchi nervosi, le radiografie e le immagini avanzate possano guidare interventi precisi di mascalcia e terapia veterinaria. Parliamo delle tecniche di pareggio e ferratura per ridurre lo stress articolare, dei trattamenti di supporto come le infiltrazioni e le terapie biologiche, e della gestione quotidiana da parte del proprietario attraverso esercizio, ambiente e alimentazione. Un episodio imperdibile per maniscalchi, veterinari e proprietari di cavalli.  Support the show To order your hardback copy of The Hoofcare Companion visit: Store | thefarrier For an eBook version visit here: The Hoofcare Companion (eBook Edition) eBook : Jerram, Marc: Amazon.co.uk: Books

In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, we dive into the critical role of radiography in assessing equine foot balance. Traditionally, farriers and veterinarians relied on visual and tactile assessment to guide trimming and shoeing, but modern diagnostic imaging has transformed hoof care. Join host Marc Jerram as we explore how radiographs provide deeper insights into hoof alignment, pastern axis, palmar angles, sole depth, and mediolateral balance. We discuss how these measurements influence farriery decisions, the collaboration between vets and farriers, and how radiographic assessment can improve both preventative and therapeutic hoof care. Whether you’re a farrier, veterinarian, or equine professional, this episode offers practical knowledge and case-based insights that can enhance your understanding of hoof balance and improve the welfare and performance of the horses in your care. Support the show To order your hardback copy of The Hoofcare Companion visit: Store | thefarrier For an eBook version visit here: The Hoofcare Companion (eBook Edition) eBook : Jerram, Marc: Amazon.co.uk: Books

En este episodio de El Compañero del Cuidado del Casco, exploramos el papel crítico de la radiografía en la evaluación del equilibrio del casco equino. Tradicionalmente, herradores y veterinarios confiaban en la evaluación visual y táctil para guiar el recorte y el calzado, pero la imagenología diagnóstica moderna ha transformado el cuidado del casco.Únete al anfitrión Marc Jerram mientras exploramos cómo las radiografías brindan una visión más profunda de la alineación del casco, el eje del menudillo, los ángulos palmares, la profundidad de la suela y el equilibrio mediolateral. Discutimos cómo estas mediciones influyen en las decisiones del herrador, la colaboración entre veterinarios y herradores, y cómo la evaluación radiográfica puede mejorar tanto el cuidado preventivo como terapéutico del casco.Seas herrador, veterinario o profesional equino, este episodio ofrece conocimientos prácticos y perspectivas basadas en casos que pueden aumentar tu comprensión del equilibrio del casco y mejorar el bienestar y el rendimiento de los caballos bajo tu cuidado. Support the show To order your hardback copy of The Hoofcare Companion visit: Store | thefarrier For an eBook version visit here: The Hoofcare Companion (eBook Edition) eBook : Jerram, Marc: Amazon.co.uk: Books