The incidence of disease in the equine foot is higher than disease in any other part of the horse.
Research Program
Knowing what Einstein said is true, to “Look deeply into Nature”, our research started in 1995 into the properties of the tissues and characteristics of something “simple”. What is relatively “simple” is the equine foot influenced only by a consistent environment, daily lifestyle and the internal biomechanics which evolved over millions of years. That is the Wild horse foot. Proprietary and original research conducted by IFEPR on feet from wild horses that died during the gathering process dictated by the Bureau of Land Management were analyzed for shape, size, radiographic characteristics, anatomic characteristics in gross dissection, and histopathological studies.
The regularity of hoof capsule shape, radiographic bone shape, and geometric measurements showed consistency and adherence to natural mathematical laws which are principles of biologic health. Resultant significant decrease in inflammatory tissues revealed a model, when applied to the domestic horse, decreased inflammation and pain.
One of the consistencies in the wild horse foot was applied using the scientific method to domestic horses. The statistically significant results showing a decrease in inciting inflammatory measures has been published in a referred journal. (See Breakover Article)
Through study of the wild horse hoof, IFEPR has used biologic and mechanical principles in assessing and treating many different hoof conditions in the horse with improved results over the past 25 years. This experience guides research hypotheses then proven or not using the scientific method to and apply all three functions of the equine foot: support mass, movement, and absorption of concussion. We compare how differing breeds, environments, and athletic uses impact the hoof and how those changes compare to the hoof of the wild horse. By understanding the impact of these factors, IFEPR is able to test new treatments and materials that are data-informed.
“Look deeply into nature and you will understand everything.”
The Method
The research we conduct will integrate all three functions of the equine foot:
Support
Absorption of Concussion
Movement
Each research study will be designed by IFEPR, then reviewed for scientific method and validation by unbiased researchers not part of IFEPR Each study will have a cost and timeline reviewed and agreed upon by the executive board. Research will be done at Colorado Equine Clinic with hoped collaboration from another research institution. Results will be statistically analyzed, papers will be written and submitted for publication. It is expected that one research project will be done each year with one paper written each year. The first research will be a comparative study on heel first, flat footed, toe first landing on blood flow, movement, and support.
This study is expected to cost $150,000-$200,000 and to commence Summer 2021.
“Although nature commences with reason and ends in experience it is necessary for us to do the opposite, that is to commence with experience and from this to proceed to investigate the reason. ”