Cannon, Fetlock, Pastern, and Hoof Anatomy

The anatomy of the lower limbs (below the knee in the front, below the hock in the rear) are very similar. Most notable differences are that the rear inferior check ligament is a less robust structure than on the front and the shape of the rear hoof is more elongate than in the front. It is always good to remember that the front limb bears considerable more weight than the rear when standing but the rear often has more force applied during motion. These difference often are reflected in the type and severity of injuries that occur to the horse. Why is founder often worse in the front? Why are horses that jump prone to rear soft tissue injuries?