ABSTRACT
This chapter briefly describes the fascial connections extending between the hoof and the proximal digit. It presents a clearer understanding into how the hoof manages and distributes such high loads and accelerations during locomotion. Research into the fascial connectivity extending between the hoof and proximal digit is notably lacking; yet understanding the mechanical connectivity between structures has the potential to provide significant insight into load management in the distal limb. A prominent fascial connection also exists between the lateral and medial edges of the Deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT), the overlying distal digital annular ligament, as well as with the fascia extending distally from the proximal digital annular ligament. Overall the fascial layers of the digit as they extend into the hoof become even more complex in their fibre directions and interconnectedness and strongly inter-related with the dermis, digital cushion and the perichondrium of the hoof cartilages.
