Negative Palmar Angle
Negative Palmar Angle in Horses
Negative palmar angle occurs when the coffin bone tilts downward at the heel, creating an unhealthy hoof angle. This condition can cause significant discomfort and lead to other hoof problems if not addressed.
Understanding Negative Palmar Angle
A healthy hoof should have a slight positive palmar angle (coffin bone parallel to the ground or slightly elevated at the heel). When this angle becomes negative, it puts abnormal stress on the deep digital flexor tendon and can cause chronic pain.
Common Causes
- Under-run heels
- Long toe, low heel conformation
- Improper trimming or shoeing
- Chronic laminitis
- Navicular syndrome
Signs to Watch For
- Chronic lameness
- Shortened stride
- Crushed or under-run heels
How We Can Help
A negative palmar angle (NPA) can make every step uncomfortable, often causing a horse to land toe-first instead of heel-first — which only makes things worse over time. The Black Pads are designed to help turn that pattern around naturally.
Our pads provide a wide, stable heel area that encourages your horse to land comfortably and confidently on their heels, promoting the proper heel-first landing that helps restore the hoof to healthier angles over time. Instead, The Black Pads gently get the hoof up off the ground, allowing the foot to function the way it was meant to.
For even more support, our PLUS Pads combine the same proven design with integrated rare-earth neodymium magnets and copper to boost circulation and reduce inflammation. Pair them with our Magnet Bell Boots to promote faster, healthier hoof growth — giving your farrier the best foundation to work their magic.
At Doc Foal’s, we believe in working with the hoof, not against it — providing comfort, balance, and the right support to help your horse move the way nature intended.