A foal born with club feet or a young, growing horse which develops the condition can be both a mystery and a problem for the owner and the veterinarian in charge of treatment. The condition can be mysterious because many factors might be involved in its onset. It is a serious problem because unless the mystery of origin is at least partially solved, treatment might not elicit the desired results.




PHOTO COURTESY RIC REDDEN, DVM

Grade 1 club in a mature foot. Note the even growth rings.

The scientific community uses the term flexural deformities for what many laymen have lumped together as the club foot syndrome. In this article, we will delve into the broad subject of flexural deformities in an effort to eliminate confusion and delineate various types, causes, effects, and treatments. We will conclude with one practitioner’s in-depth approach.


There are both congenital and acquired causes of flexural deformities. They can range from uterine malposition to injuries after birth, and from genetic defects to improper nutrition. Not to be overlooked as a cause for acquired flexural deformity is pain. In fact, some researchers believe that chronic pain is the most common cause of an acquired deformity

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