Pars inflexa parietis
The bars are specialized continuations of the hoof wall that turn sharply inward at the heels and run forward parallel to the frog. They terminate near the apex of the frog and, together with the heel walls, form the heel buttresses. Structurally they consist of the same three layers as the wall (stratum externum, medium, and internum/lamellar), providing rigid yet somewhat flexible support. Functionally, the bars brace the heels against inward collapse, help distribute vertical load during weight-bearing, and work with the frog and digital cushion to allow controlled expansion and recoil of the hoof capsule. They lie directly beneath the collateral cartilages and help transfer impact energy into those flexible structures. Clinically, collapsed, weak, or overgrown bars distort the capsule, increase stress on the navicular region and deep digital flexor tendon, and are frequently seen with underrun heels, low heels, or navicular syndrome. Overgrown bars can cover sole and reduce solar concavity. Proper trimming preserves functional bar length and heel integrity without excessive removal that destabilizes the buttress.
Assess bar integrity with solar radiography and careful farriery evaluation. Collapsed bars often accompany negative palmar angle or navicular bone changes. Therapeutic shoes that support the heel buttress (e.g., egg-bar or heart-bar designs in select cases) or careful barefoot management that restores heel height can be helpful.
Watch for bars that are thin, cracked, or collapsed inward (especially with low or underrun heels). After trimming, heels should not "sink." Call the vet or farrier if you see recurrent heel cracks, thrush that undermines the bars, or sudden changes in heel height associated with lameness. Avoid aggressive bar removal.
Assess bar integrity with solar radiography and careful farriery evaluation. Collapsed bars often accompany negative palmar angle or navicular bone changes. Therapeutic shoes that support the heel buttress (e.g., egg-bar or heart-bar designs in select cases) or careful barefoot management that restores heel height can be helpful.
Watch for bars that are thin, cracked, or collapsed inward (especially with low or underrun heels). After trimming, heels should not "sink." Call the vet or farrier if you see recurrent heel cracks, thrush that undermines the bars, or sudden changes in heel height associated with lameness. Avoid aggressive bar removal.
See the Bars (of the hoof) on our interactive 3D horse model. Open 3D Model