05/16/2024
Xrays for balance. Often times xrays are taken to determine hoof balance in a static view. Its then determined how the hoof should be trimmed and how the shoe should fit. What is often lacking in this concept is a follow up xray at the end of the shoeing cycle, often times 5 to 7 weeks later.
The hoof capsule grows down and forward over time requiring a new trim to re balance hoof capsule alignment. So one xray at the day of trimming/shoeing gives insight to how we might be able to trim a particular horse and forcast balance over a time period, and a follow up xray at the end of a given time, helps determine if the horse remained in allowable limits of function and balance at a static view.
Further more, there are plenty of other factors to consider for balance and function. One example is adding a roller type shoe to achieve a particular balance, in the static view, may not be safe for horse and rider if they are barrel racing, it could make for a slippery footed horse trying to run around barrels.
In short, xrays are simply one tool used in regards to balance, but should not be the final approach to determining how best to trim or shoe.
