The toed-in conformation leads to excessive strain on the outside or lateral aspect of the hoof and fetlock, as the horse usually lands on the outside wall of the hoof. This flaw also is recognized when standing in front of the horse. Unlike the forelegs, it is normal for the hooves of the hindlegs to point out slightly. This is a result of the normal position of the stifle in the horse, which is turned out slightly. In these horses, interfering of the foot and fetlock can occur, resulting in injury to the fetlock.
Carpal valgus is one of the angular limb deformities that occurs in foals.
If left uncorrected, this results in a great deal of stress placed on the ligaments and small bones of the carpus, especially on the medial or inner surfaces of the carpus. Although most of these deformities will correct spontaneously if mild in nature, those that are more severe or do not correct on their own require surgery within the first two months of life. After that time, the growth of the radius has greatly slowed and there is a much less chance of a successful outcome. Carpal varus is another angular limb deformity that occurs in foals and is the opposite of carpal valgus. This results is the stresses being greatest on the lateral or outer surface of the carpus.