Now, I could be wrong, but it sounds to me like maybe, colic?
Laminitis or colic, both very serious illnesses. Call vet immediatly
A horse may paw at the ground as a sign of restlessness, boredom, or frustration. It can also be a natural behavior for horses to search for food or test the ground for safety.
A horse may paw the ground as a sign of impatience, frustration, or discomfort. It can also be a natural behavior for horses to explore their surroundings or to communicate with other horses.
The most popular signs are the horse is ether rolling or pawing the ground continuously. If they do this call a vet right away.
If a horse is bored it will windsuck, start pawing the floor, and will chew wood.
stall pacing, swaying from side to side, somrtimes cribbing, constantly pawing the ground. you can put new toys in a stall to keep him occupied.
It could be colic ,When he/she is standing are they pawing the ground or kicking their tummy. All horses react differently to pain the same as humans.
* Rearing * Neighing * Pawing the ground * Pacing * Pulling on rope OR Setting back * Snorting
chewing(cribing) the wood pacing, digging or pawing
It depends on the level of dissobedience. If its minor (biting, pawing ect.) sharply tell him no and smack his muzzle lightly, dont hit him hard or beat him, just lightly. if its serious (kicking, bucking, bolting ect.) you should probably take the horse to a trainer to get him straitedned out. whatever you do, do not constantly hit your horse, no matter how lightly. this will just cause him to turn on you
Horses may paw at the ground due to boredom, stress, discomfort, or a desire for attention. It could also be a sign of a medical issue such as stomach pain or hoof problems. It is important to observe your horse's behavior and consult with a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause of this behavior.
That was maybe an accident because they normally 'dig' a hole in the ground when they're irritated its called pawing! Hoped I helped! :) ;)