In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, we explore the collateral ligaments of the equine lower limb, examining their anatomy, location, function and importance in maintaining joint stability during locomotion.

Collateral ligaments play a vital role in controlling excessive movement within joints, resisting abnormal lateral and medial displacement, and maintaining the structural integrity of the equine limb. Injury to these structures can result in lameness, reduced athletic performance and, in more severe cases, joint instability.

We examine the medial and lateral collateral ligaments of the fetlock (metacarpophalangeal and metatarsophalangeal joints), proximal interphalangeal joint (pastern) and distal interphalangeal joint (coffin joint). We also consider the collateral ligament complexes of the carpus and tarsus.

Throughout the episode, we discuss the associated pathologies, including desmitis, desmopathy and enthesopathy, and explain how these injuries may develop through trauma, repetitive loading and abnormal biomechanical forces.

We explore the veterinary diagnostic process, including clinical examination, diagnostic analgesia, radiography, ultrasonography and MRI, highlighting the importance of accurately identifying the injured structure.

Particular attention is given to the farrier's role in managing collateral ligament injuries. We consider how hoof balance, mediolateral support, breakover, shoe selection and the distribution of ground-reaction forces may influence loading through affected joints. We also discuss the importance of collaboration between veterinary surgeons and farriers when developing appropriate treatment and rehabilitation strategies.

In this episode, we cover:

• Anatomy and precise locations of the equine collateral ligaments.
• The function of medial and lateral collateral ligaments.
• Fetlock, pastern and coffin joint collateral ligament injuries.
• Carpal and tarsal collateral ligament complexes.
• Common causes and clinical signs of ligament pathology.
• Veterinary diagnostic techniques and advanced imaging.
• Treatment options and ligament healing.
• Farriery considerations and therapeutic shoeing principles.
• Rehabilitation, prognosis and return to work.

Understanding collateral ligament anatomy is essential for farriers, veterinary surgeons, veterinary students and equine professionals involved in identifying, managing and rehabilitating horses with musculoskeletal injuries.

The Hoofcare Companion – developing knowledge, improving understanding and supporting better equine welfare.

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The Hoofcare Companion (eBook Edition) eBook : Jerram, Marc: Amazon.co.uk: Books

Hoof abscesses are one of the most common causes of sudden lameness in horses, but how much do you really understand about their causes, diagnosis and treatment?

In this episode of The Hoofcare Companion, we explore the pathology of hoof abscesses, examining how bacteria enter the foot, the predisposing factors involved and why an apparently minor lesion can cause severe pain.

We discuss the clinical signs to recognise, including increased digital pulses, hoof sensitivity and sudden-onset lameness, alongside the importance of distinguishing an abscess from solar bruising, laminitis, fractures and other serious conditions.

Discover the different drainage pathways, from the sole and white line to the coronary band and heel bulbs, and learn why the exit point may not reveal the original source of infection.

We also examine veterinary diagnostic techniques, including hoof testers and radiography, treatment options, appropriate drainage, poulticing, pain relief and when antibiotics may be necessary.

Finally, we consider the farrier’s role in managing hoof abscesses, preserving healthy horn, selecting protective shoeing options and recognising when veterinary investigation is essential.

Learning outcomes
• Understand the causes and development of hoof abscesses.
• Recognise clinical signs and potential exit points.
• Understand veterinary diagnostic and treatment options.
• Explore farriery management, complications and prevention.
• Appreciate the importance of veterinary–farrier collaboration.

Whether you are a farrier, veterinary professional, equine student or horse owner, this episode provides practical knowledge to support better decision-making and equine welfare.

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

White Line Disease & Seedy Toe in the Horse

What is the difference between white line disease and seedy toe? Are they actually the same condition and is white line disease really just a fungal infection?

In this episode, we look beyond the visible cavity to explore what is happening inside the hoof and why understanding the underlying mechanics is essential for successful treatment.

We cover:

• White line disease vs seedy toe
• Causes and contributing factors
• Clinical signs and diagnosis
• When radiographs are important
• Debridement and treatment
• Corrective trimming and therapeutic farriery
• The role of topical treatments
• Hoof protection and shoeing options
• Prognosis and rehabilitation
• Veterinary–farrier collaboration

The key message: don't just treat the hole, understand why it developed!

An essential listen for farriers, vets, veterinary students, equine professionals and anyone wanting to understand hoof-wall pathology at a deeper level.

🎧 Listen now and develop your understanding of one of the hoof conditions that can remain hidden until significant structural damage has occurred.

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