Low Plantar Angle

Patient:
12 year warmblood showjumper

Anamnese/history:

Presented with back/sacroiliac issues and General unwillingness!!
Camped under Posture
Slope of the coronary band from the toe to the heel have an acute angle.
Bulbs of the heels have a “bended” appearance
Dorsal hoof wall begins to take on a “bull nose” appearance
Frog is situated well below the hoof wall
Frog is generally large from the constant stimulation with the ground.
Longer toe makes the foot stay longer on the ground
Horse is sore and restricted in hindleg movements
Radiographs shows -4,7 degree Plantar Angle
 

Diagnosis:

Definition:

Plantar(hind feet)/palmar(front feet)angle.
The relation between the solar surface of P# and solar surface of the hoof.

Considered normal between 2-6 degree
Under 2 degrees affects biomechanics and are overloading several structures.
Most focus are on front feet but hindlegs are also affected to a great extinct

Issues caused by low Plantar angle:

•    Suspensory branches injuries
•    Collateral ligaments injuries
•    Tarsitis/spavin
•    Stifle/patellar problems
•    Gluteal pain
•    Proximal suspensory injuries
DDFT injuries and sheet swelling

Treatment:

Shoeing and trimming: 
Front half of the hoof trimmed, heels from the widest point of sole left untouched
Libero set toe- to reduce leverage in breakover, secure the shoe from being displaced, make sure dorsal hoof wall is weightbearing, 
Leather wedge pads- for restoring PA and change posture to reduce load of the heel- loads shearing with frog and sole
Comfort-Mix hoof pad soft  packing for weight shearing with frog and sole

Timeline: 
November

December:

Horse is improving in general conditions
Heels growing and bulbs are relaxing 
PA improving 

January:

PA within normal range 3.5 degree
Posture and general movement are improved and normalized
As heel are stronger and less underrun 

Pads are removed 
Set toe and caudal support(long shoes)  recommended for continuous shoeing

Prognosis:

The horse responded very well to shoeing and treatment. Further development is hopeful depending on adequate training and recapitalization.