Marc Jerram BSc (Hons) Grad Dip ELR CJF AWCF Registered Farrier

Introduction Sidebone is defined as the ossification of the collateral cartilages  of the distal phalanx in the equine foot and is a common finding in many horses, particularly in the forelimbs of heavier breeds and those subjected to repetitive concussion (Beasley 2024; Gray 2025). The collateral cartilages normally provide elastic support and shock absorption  as the hoof deforms and expands under load, an essential function for dissipating forces transmitted through the li

Anatomy and function of the suspensory ligament

Introduction The hoof pastern axis HPA is a foundational concept in hoof anatomy farriery and equine biomechanics. It describes the alignment relationship between the dorsal surface of the hoof wall and the dorsal surface of the pastern encompassing the proximal phalanx P1 middle phalanx P2 and distal phalanx P3. When viewed laterally the ideal hoof pastern axis presents as a straight continuous line from the dorsal pastern to the toe of the hoof. This alignment is not merely

How indicators on the hoof can suggest back pain is present.