Posted by Patty Stiller on May 11, 2000 at 22:20:55:
In Reply to: Re: Question for Patty Stiller/ hoof expansion posted by Barb Peck on May 11, 2000 at 11:16:35:
: Patty Stiller says:
: As for the expansion question, it normally does no harm to nail in the very rear of the hoof. This is
: because very recent research is indicating that a healthy functioning foot does NOT expand at the bottom
: of the heels first, but rather from the frog, *upward and outward* through the bars and digital cushion,
: through the BULBS of the foot. This is the way a foot that has the frog and bars intact, and has a dirt
: impaction around the frog functions. If the BULBS can expand upward and outward, the foot will
: become wider at the heels.
: If the wall at the bottom of the heels is forced to expand, through removal of the bars , thinning of the
: sole, or "slippering the shoe etc, the foot actually becomes more contracted as the bulbs are "pulled"
: together.
: Patty:
: Expansion thru the bulbs theory is very interesting.
: Is the latest research you refer to on this subject
: found on this site?
: If not, can you point me in the right direction (I'd like
: to read it if I may.)
: Thanks,
: Barb
This newer expansion theory is based on anatomical research from Michigan State University, Dr Robet Bowker.There are some axial projections of the ungual(lateral)cartilages that run under the digital cushion that are involved, along with the bars and frog. Dr Bowker has presented this at several forums, but I will have to find the printed articles for you. As soon as I find the titles I will let you know. I don't think they are available yet through the internet....but I will ask. Patty