“Laminitis (inflammation of the lamina of the hoof) is a common and potentially devastating foot problem that affects all members of the equine family: horses, ponies, donkeys, mules, and wild equids. The disease process involves a breakdown of the bond between the hoof wall and the distal phalanx, commonly called the coffin bone, pedal bone, or third phalanx (P3).” – ACVS
The two major causes for laminitis are high insulin levels or a systemic sepsis or poisoning due to an imbalance in the gut flora. Treatment for laminitis must focus on three areas. First to reduce inflammation, second to balance or stabilize insulin levels and finally balance the gut pH and rebuild gut flora. If the laminitis was severe and caused the coffin or pedal bone to rotate we need to reposition the bone and support the connective tissue and ligaments.