Morphological and Biomechanical Properties of Equine Laminar Junction

The interlocking of dermis and epidermis is called the laminar junction or interface. Laminae provide a sturdy junction in between the distal phalanx and the keratinized hoof wall transferring the forces between those structures. Although the horse's weight is imposed on the distal phalanx and the hoof capsule, the laminar junction plays a crucial role in absorbing and dissipating the applied forces both from the weight of the animal and the ground reaction forces. Understanding the morphologic and mechanical properties of the laminar junction is a key to recognizing influencing factors and is paramount to understanding performance and health in horses. This article will present a review of the significance of the morphological and biomechanical properties of the equine laminar junction.