The capsule of the hoof is conical shaped because it is attached to the conical shaped

coffin bone.  By putting a vertical measure you can measure the distance of  the hoofs

conical shape and follow the improvement.

When you see the heel bulbs look sort of mounded instead of smooth and wide with a gentle slope between the

heels, you are seeing contraction.  The lateral cartilages when the capsule is narrow or pulled forward or any

type of deformity to the natural healthy conical shape.  The cartilages are jammed out of position and being

pushed to the back of the heel. 

Sometime the wall will wrap around like an extreme club foot.  But, actually can be rehabilitated and the heels

will expand out relaxing so the lateral cartilage can expand back to a normal position.

Aqua therapy walks can bring a contracted capsule back to normal in weeks.

Down below are two different sets of hoof prints on rubber mats.  What is so interesting is the one with the

natural and better shaped hoof showing good contact with the frog had the worst hooves in the beginning.

This horse was on IV's and had some much disease and deformity (by neglect) in the hoof that she couldn't

stand and was ill.  After trimming her for 8 months her prints reflect the better form.

The 2nd print is from a horse that was just started and very contracted and you can see how the print reflect

the shape and weightbearing.

The hind foot tracks into the upper front hoof print.