Scientific References

Welcome to our scientific overview page. The reliability and precision of our app are of utmost importance to us. Therefore, the analysis of the Hufrehealarm app is based on well-founded veterinary studies, biomechanical simulations, and recognized radiological measurement data. On this page, we have compiled the most important scientific references and sources that we consulted during the development of our algorithms and evaluations.

Glossary with Radiological Normal Value

Source / Basis: e-hoof.com

Content: Radiologically defines a normal palmar angle of 2° to 6° (coffin bone (P3) relative to the ground).

Link: Learn more -> https://e-hoof.com/glossary/de/winkel-palmarer-plantarer/

Biomechanical Simulation: Palmar Angle & Dorsal Lamellar Load

Source / Basis: Ramsey et al. (2011) - Equine Vet J

Content: A finite element model shows: The higher the palmar angle (0°–15°), the higher the stress on the dorsal lamellar interface (hoof wall attachment).

Link: Learn more -> https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21496082/

Discussion: Normal Angles vs. Pathology

Source / Basis: The Equine Documentalist

Content: A widely accepted normal range is between 2° and 7°, although some authors cite up to 10° as the limit.

Link: Learn more -> https://www.theequinedocumentalist.com/palmar-angles/

Clinical X-ray Diagnostics – Palmar Angle & Deviations

Source / Basis: Pferdepraxis Sommerfeld

Content: Normal palmar angles are stated here as 3° to 5°. Significantly deviant values may indicate a mechanical misalignment or incorrect loading.

Link: Learn more -> https://pferdepraxis-sommerfeld.de/palmar-foot-syndrome-beim-pferd-anatomie-roentgendiagnostik-und-behandlung/

Radiological Normal Values from Measurement Data

Source / Basis: Metron Mind

Content: Objective measurement data show a normal range of approx. 1.3° to 9.7° within a studied population of horses.

Link: Learn more -> https://www.metronmind.com/led-measures

Overview of Accepted Normal Angle Ranges

Source / Basis: The laminitis site

Content: The normally accepted range for the palmar/plantar angle is approx. 3° to 8°, with references to various authors (e.g., 3°–5°, 2°–10°).

Link: Learn more -> https://www.thelaminitissite.org/feet-a-z.html

Summary of Normal Ranges

Based on scientific sources, the generally accepted normal range for the palmar angle lies between 2° and 6°. Values between 7° and 10° indicate early changes, while values above 10° may point to significant mechanical deviations.

Scientific Literature & App Approach

Scientific literature shows varying data for normal palmar angles. Our app uses a conservative approach and divides the results into three clear categories:

Green: 0°–6°

Yellow: 7°–10°

Red: +10°

Important Note Regarding the Analysis Results

An increased palmar angle alone is not a diagnosis for laminitis, but it can be an important indication of mechanical stress. Other factors such as husbandry, feeding, and clinical symptoms must always be taken into account.

Disclaimer: Assessment of Coffin Bone Position and Derived Metrics

The calculation of angles within the hoof capsule – specifically the palmar angle – is based solely on photographic material and may deviate from radiographic measurements. The generated data is intended for early detection and documentation of mechanical overloading and explicitly does not substitute a medical diagnosis. For a precise diagnosis or in case of any uncertainties, a veterinary X-ray examination is always required.