Teams of veterinarians and farriers from around the country gathered at the fifth International Conference on Laminitis and Diseases of the Foot in Monterey, Calif., Sept. 17-18, 2010, to discuss the most cutting-edge information available for the fight to conquer laminitis. This devastating hoof disease is caused by an inflammation of the horse's laminae–interlocking leaflike tissues attaching the hoof to the coffin bone. The exact causes, treatment, and prevention methods are varied and often elusive, but the presenters featured at the conference provided more insight on topics such as diagnostic testing, management strategies, and the importance of nutrition, exercise, and hoof care for the laminitic horse.

Following are synopses of some of the conference presentations. Longer versions of these articles can be found on TheHorse.com