Functional Synergism of the Biomechanical Systems of the Bovine Claw

In recent years a number of workers have contributed valuable information towards the clarification of the structure and function of the bovine claw. In this paper we wish to recognize these contributions and attempt to bring their findings together as a holistic scenario of how the claw may function.

Emerging from the ions of evolution, the bovine foot has been fashioned by nature to function in a pastoral setting in which the claws of the animal are most in harmony with resilient underfoot conditions. Several biomechanical systems within the claw capsule contribute to the interface between the axial skeleton and surfaces on which the animal walks and stands ...