12/03/2025
Did you know, landing pattern is primarily driven by swing-phase joint asymmetries, central pattern generators and muscular physiology, not trimming!
→ Implication: Landing pattern is an expression of neuromotor preference, established in swing.
The image below shows what many think is the model for limb biomechanics,
Hoof balance dictates first impact - Hoof loading dictated by landing- setting up the swing phase
vs the actual case according to research.
Swing phase is implicated by conformation, speed, physiology etc - dictates angle of hoof landing - Cop trace is independent of landing
Clinical & Farriery Implications
• Swing phase is the upstream driver: limb conformation, neuromuscular coordination and joint asymmetry determine hoof approach angle, speed and rotation.
• Farriery cannot meaningfully “correct” swing phase; it influences stance, not the neural programs that set landing.
• Consistent flat OR lateral landings in sound horses are normal expressions of individual swing mechanics.
This doesn’t take away from the farriers impact on the metacarpo-phalangeal angle which has a profound effect on landing.
Beyond gross asymmetries, chasing flat landings when measured by slow motion or modern tech that tells us the centre of pressure trace, can actually be detrimental to hoof-ground interaction and hoof morphology!
New technologies can be dangerous when paired with old thinking.
A new balance paradigm is indicated which requires careful assessment of the whole stance phase when considering some practises that are widely used, such as spiral shoes to force flat landings.
Join me for a webinar diving into our new understandings of medio-lateral balance.
8th Dec, 11am GMT - recording will be available
https://equineeducationhub.thinkific.com/courses/landing
