Equine Lameness Prevention Organization (ELPO)
One of what Sport Horse believes are the five primary contributors to soreness is foot care. Foot distortion is without a doubt a primary source of soreness and the poor performance and disposition that accompanies it. All too frequently during an evaluation, when we turn our gaze downward, we wonder what's with the feet??? Every farrier, as every professional, works with their best intent and knowledge at hand. Unfortunately, we know from experience, all too often it falls short of the goal of normal, comfortable function and performance. But why?
Sport Horse is grateful to Equine Lameness Prevention Organization (ELPO) who has over years of study and science found the answers to balance, breakover and normal, natural, comfortable foot function. This is NOT the "natural balance" of past craze that cut the toes off and crippled our equine friends. This is the true science observed, documented and developed by Gene Ovnicek, RMF of Penrose, Colorado and dedicated professionals world wide.
For ELPO Natural Balance is:
-becoming aware of the horse's foot by way of scientific research and the observations of the naturally prepared foot.
-understanding what is healthy & normal, and what is distorted & abnormal, and how performance & soundness is affected by an unhealthy or distorted foot.
-understanding good foot function and how to achieve equilibrium around the DIP joint.
-a set of hoof preparation guidelines that will support the biomechanical needs of the foot, with special attention given to caudal foot function & medial/lateral balance.
-a set of guidelines to help better understand the movement of the horse from a performance & soundness perspective (eg, hoof landing, length of stride, etc.)"
A great way to spell relief is ELPO. A well balanced natural foot will bring a lick and chew or yawn every time thus we are grateful to this vibrant, ever learning, expanding organization that supports our like efforts to bring health, comfort and performance to our equines.
For more information about this organization, its principles, goals and programs or to find a farrier near you visit their website at... www.E-HoofCare.com.