Foot-related lameness is one of the most frequently encountered problems in the equine industry. Therapeutic shoeing is a frequently-used preventative discipline for the treatment of many causes of lameness.^1-3 The primary goal for therapeutic applications is to offset the mechanical limitations of the foot and enhance the healing environment.

The mechanical influence of trimming and shoeing for therapeutic purposes is poorly understood by some farriers and veterinarians.

By-and-large, traditional trimming and shoeing goals are focused on creating a normal appearing, well-balanced foot. This concept serves the horse well, as long as it meets the ever-changing maintenance requirements of the foot. However, the terms normal, balanced and therapeutic are subjective at best and are relative terms. Compared with what?

Foot problems frequently occur despite of the very best efforts of competent, experienced and highly respected farriers, but are seldom resolved with more of the same well-shod, balanced appearance concept that if it looks good it must be so. Without consideration of the forces within the foot that influence the…