Pastern

usgb/ˈpæstərn/
noun

A part of a horse's leg, located between the hoof and the ankle or fetlock.

The horse had a broken pastern and had to be carefully treated.
Visual representation of "pastern" - A part of a horse's leg, located between the hoof and the ankle or fetlock

Often appears as...

  • broken pastern
  • swollen pastern

Usage tips

Technical

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "pastern"
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Equestrian Term

Used mainly by horse enthusiasts, vets, and people involved in horse racing or care.

Illustration for Equestrian Term
The equestrian noticed the horse's pastern seemed tender during the morning trot.
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Injury Prone Area

The pastern is susceptible to injuries, which is relevant when discussing horse health or anatomy.

Illustration for Injury Prone Area
After the jump, the trainer examined the horse for any signs of pastern strain.
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Visual Identification

Recognize the pastern as a short, sloping region above the hoof, necessary for accurate horse descriptions.

Illustration for Visual Identification
The bay mare had white markings extending down to her pasterns.
Visual representation of the word "Pastern"

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