|
Be it removal of shoes, conformational corrections, or the reduction
of excessively long heels to allow contracted hooves to open--all of
these result in a change in the stresses (pressures and tensions)
within the hoof, associated ligaments and tendons, and/or joints. It
stands to reason that the effected tissues will require some time to
become accustomed to these.
Usually, every tissue of the body, every cell is replaced after a
certain amount of time, depending in part on the rate of metabolism.
However, when there is a change in the tissue, or a repair is
necessary, sometimes the usual rate of metabolism is not sufficient.
Increased circulation and increased blood supply become
necessary--in other words, inflammation. Within the hoof, increased
blood supply is painful because there is no room for the excess
blood.
This is why, in many cases, with changes in the shape of the hoof,
comes inflammation of the corium.
This is generally impossible to avoid, since the reshaping of the
hoof toward its normal, physiologically sound form cannot take place
without inflammation--which disappears as tissues and stresses once
again harmonize.
The better the circulation and blood supply, the faster the change
in the tissues, and the quicker the inflammation will be over. This
is why exercise (using common sense) is necessary for quick healing.
Immobilization of the hoof means less blood supply and circulation,
and thereby slower healing.
|