Aug 7, 2026 · 7 min · 7 segments
**The Hoofcare Companion – The Equine Carpus** In this episode of *The Hoofcare Companion*, we explore the anatomy and function of the **equine carpus (knee)**. You'll learn about the bones, joints…
Definition.
The equine carpus, commonly referred to as the knee, is a complex synovial joint located between the radius and the metacarpus of the forelimb.
It is composed of multiple small carpal bones arranged in two rows, forming a series of articulations that provide strength, flexibility, and shock absorption.
Although commonly called the knee, it is anatomically equivalent to the human wrist.
The carpus plays a vital role in supporting the horse's body weight, absorbing concussion during locomotion, and allowing controlled flexion of the forelimb.
Due to the substantial forces transmitted through this region during athletic activity, the carpus is frequently affected by traumatic injuries and degenerative joint disease.
Origin.
Embryologically, the carpus develops through endochondral ossification, whereby cartilage models are gradually replaced by bone.
During fetal development, individual carpal bones form separate centers of ossification before fusing into mature structures.
In the adult horse, the carpus forms the articulation between the distal radius proximally and the third metacarpal bone distally, with additional support from the second and fourth metacarpal bones, numerous ligaments, tendons, and joint capsules stabilize the carpus while permitting the controlled movement necessary for efficient locomotion.
Definition.
The equine carpus, commonly referred to as the knee, is a complex synovial joint located between the radius and the metacarpus of the forelimb.
It is composed of multiple small carpal bones arranged in two rows, forming a series of articulations that provide strength, flexibility, and shock absorption.
Although commonly called the knee, it is anatomically equivalent to the human wrist.
The carpus plays a vital role in supporting the horse's body weight, absorbing concussion during locomotion, and allowing controlled flexion of the forelimb.
Due to the substantial forces transmitted through this region during athletic activity, the carpus is frequently affected by traumatic injuries and degenerative joint disease.
Origin.
Embryologically, the carpus develops through endochondral ossification, whereby cartilage models are gradually replaced by bone.
During fetal development, individual carpal bones form separate centers of ossification before fusing into mature structures.
In the adult horse, the carpus forms the articulation between the distal radius proximally and the third metacarpal bone distally, with additional support from the second and fourth metacarpal bones, numerous ligaments, tendons, and joint capsules stabilize the carpus while permitting the controlled movement necessary for efficient locomotion.
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