Pedal bone

The Pedal Bone, commonly known as the coffin bone (U.S.), is the bottomost bone in the equine leg and is encased by the hoof capsule. Also known as the distal phalange, third phalange, third phalanx, or "P3," it is vulnerable to injury and fractures. For example, inflammatory conditions such as laminitis may lead to rotation of the coffin bone. Pedal osteitis is another common, inflammatory condition. X-rays can diagnose injury, determine the position of the bone, and verify the type of damage that may have been received. Once injured, remedial shoeing can help protect the pedal bone from further trauma. Treatment of assorted disorders may also involve use of shoe pads, anti-inflammatory medication, and management changes.

See also

• Horse hoof
• Skeletal system of the horse
• Equine forelimb anatomy