Pulvinus digitalis
The digital cushion is a wedge-shaped structure of fibroelastic tissue and fat located in the palmar/plantar aspect of the foot, between the frog (below), the deep digital flexor tendon and navicular apparatus (above), and the collateral (ungual) cartilages (on either side). In foals it is softer and fattier; with maturity and proper loading it develops more fibrocartilage and becomes a more effective shock absorber. When the foot lands, the frog and digital cushion compress, dissipating impact forces and contributing to the hemodynamic pump that assists venous return from the foot. A well-developed cushion supports the heel and reduces stress on the navicular apparatus and coffin joint. Poor development (from lack of heel/frog loading, prolonged shoeing without breakover, or confinement) leaves the foot more vulnerable to concussion-related problems.
Atrophy or poor development is associated with increased risk of navicular-region pain, heel bruising, and suboptimal hoof mechanics. It is assessed clinically by palpation of the heel bulbs and frog and can be evaluated on MRI or CT. There is no direct “treatment,” but management focuses on encouraging proper loading (trimming, shoeing, turnout).
Flat or “empty” heel bulbs and a thin frog often indicate a poorly developed digital cushion. Encourage heel-first landing and frog contact through appropriate trimming/shoeing and varied terrain. Sudden heel pain after hard ground work may reflect inadequate cushioning.
Atrophy or poor development is associated with increased risk of navicular-region pain, heel bruising, and suboptimal hoof mechanics. It is assessed clinically by palpation of the heel bulbs and frog and can be evaluated on MRI or CT. There is no direct “treatment,” but management focuses on encouraging proper loading (trimming, shoeing, turnout).
Flat or “empty” heel bulbs and a thin frog often indicate a poorly developed digital cushion. Encourage heel-first landing and frog contact through appropriate trimming/shoeing and varied terrain. Sudden heel pain after hard ground work may reflect inadequate cushioning.
See the Digital Cushion on our interactive 3D horse model. Open 3D Model