Pastern: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'pastern' comes from the Old French 'pastourn', which means 'to walk'.
• It has roots in Middle English, reflecting the importance of horses in medieval society.
• The term has been used in English since at least the 15th century.

Anatomy

• The pastern plays a crucial role in absorbing shock when the horse is running or jumping.
• There are two distinct pastern bones: the proximal (near the body) and distal (closer to the foot) phalanx.
• In horses, the angle of the pastern can indicate soundness and overall health.

Equestrian Sports

• Understanding the pastern is vital in disciplines like dressage and showjumping, where performance depends on joint health.
• In equestrian medicine, problems in the pastern area can lead to serious performance issues or injuries.
• Regular care, including farriery (hoof care), is essential to maintain a horse's pastern and overall leg health.

Culture

• The pastern has inspired various terms in idiomatic expressions, often equating steadiness or reliability with horse behavior.
• In literature, horse care and anatomy are used to symbolize deeper themes of loyalty and companionship.

Veterinary Science

• Veterinarians often assess the pastern during lameness examinations, as it can reveal much about a horse's health.
• Pastern joint injuries are common in working or competitive horses and require careful diagnosis and treatment.
• Specialized therapy may include physical rehabilitation focused on the pastern to enhance recovery.

Ranking #35,380, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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