ABSTRACT
The foot as applied to the distal limb of a horse is not an anatomical term supported by the Nomina Anatomica Veterinaria, but from common usage it has evolved to mean that part of the distal limb surrounded by the hoof and all the structures contained within the hoof. The majority of the diseases of the foot are secondary to infection or trauma and to degeneration subsequent to recurrent low-grade trauma. Trauma to structures of the foot is primarily related to its proximity and interaction with the ground and internal stresses associated with exercise. Infection follows surface contamination, penetration of the integument through injury or, rarely, haematogenous spread.
