OTHER DIAGNOSES CONSIDERED
Other conditions or ailments that might also need to be ruled out by a vet.
Diagnosis
Conditions or ailments that are the cause of a problem that you see - your observation.
Your vet may diagnose
Hoof Wall Crack, Blowout
Summary
This is a crack that starts at the coronet, usually in a quarter or heel, and extends part way down the hoof wall. You may notice lameness and blood.
Generally, these cracks occur when there is unequal loading of the hoof that causes a quarter or heel to roll under in weight bearing. This may be seen as a consequence of problems of trimming or shoeing, conformation or both.
It is more commonly seen in hooves that are imbalanced medial to lateral, underrun and especially sheared heels. It is also more commonly seen in horses that work at disciplines that heavily load the hooves (racing, jumping and performance horses).
Treatment involves rest, and addressing the mechanical problems that led to the overload and the crack. In most cases, vets do not bridge the crack in any way. It grows out and self-resolves if the mechanical problems are addressed.
Generally, these cracks occur when there is unequal loading of the hoof that causes a quarter or heel to roll under in weight bearing. This may be seen as a consequence of problems of trimming or shoeing, conformation or both.
It is more commonly seen in hooves that are imbalanced medial to lateral, underrun and especially sheared heels. It is also more commonly seen in horses that work at disciplines that heavily load the hooves (racing, jumping and performance horses).
Treatment involves rest, and addressing the mechanical problems that led to the overload and the crack. In most cases, vets do not bridge the crack in any way. It grows out and self-resolves if the mechanical problems are addressed.
my vet's role
Diagnostics Used
These are tests that might be helpful to make this diagnosis or further characterize the condition.
Treatments May Include
These treatments might be used to help resolve or improve this condition.
PROGNOSIS AND RELEVANT FACTORS
Good, provided the underlying unequal loading and torsional forces within the hoof can be lessened.my role
I might observe
You might make these observations when a horse has this condition.
Very Common
Less Common
Skills I Might Need
I might need these skills if my horse has this diagnosis.
Questions To Ask Your Vet:
- Is there something about the way this horse is shod or trimmed that is causing unequal loading, and the development of this crack?
Prevention
Ensure good hoof balance, good hoof quality through nutrition and care. Treat problems of imbalance, underrun and sheared heels so that forces within the hoof do not reach a level that these cracks develop.
further reading & resources
Outside Resources
CREDIBLE EQUINE HEALTH INFORMATION ON THE INTERNET
