Therapeutic support horseshoe

Abstract

A therapeutic support horseshoe includes a resilient, flexile moldable material formed in a U shape with an anterior segment from which opposing first and second side segments continuously extend to opposing caudal ends separated as an open heel and a pliable, metal rod-like reinforcer embedded in the flexile moldable material between opposing hoof-contacting and ground-contacting surfaces, the reinforcer extending from one caudal end, through the anterior segment, to the other caudal end of the horseshoe. The horseshoe so formed includes an inner side surface and an outer side surface between the opposing hoof-contacting and ground-contacting surfaces a slot formed in the inner side surface, approximately halfway between the opposing hoof-contacting and ground-contacting surfaces, and extending from the one caudal end to the other caudal end.

Claims

1. A therapeutic support horseshoe comprising: a resilient, flexile moldable material formed in a U shape with an anterior segment from which opposing first and second side segments continuously extend to opposing caudal ends separated as an open heel; and a pliable, metal rod-like reinforcer embedded in the flexile moldable material between opposing hoof-contacting and ground-contacting surfaces, the reinforcer extending from one caudal end, through the anterior segment, to the other caudal end of the horseshoe; wherein the horseshoe so formed includes an inner side surface and an outer side surface between the opposing hoof-contacting and ground-contacting surfaces; and wherein the horseshoe so formed includes a slot formed in the inner side surface, approximately halfway between the opposing hoof-contacting and ground-contacting surfaces, and extending from the one caudal end to the other caudal end.

2. The therapeutic support horseshoe as defined in claim 1, wherein the slot is cut into the inner side surface.

3. The therapeutic support horseshoe as defined in claim 2, further comprising a sole support device provided between the caudal ends, at least part of which sole support device is received in the slot.

4. The therapeutic support horseshoe as defined in claim 3, wherein the sole support device comprises a pour-in pad.

5. The therapeutic support horseshoe as defined in claim 4, wherein the pour-in pad conforms to a hoof of a horse upon which the pour-in pad is applied.

6. The therapeutic support horseshoe as defined in claim 3, wherein the sole support device comprises an impression material, the impression material comprising silicone-based putty.

7. The therapeutic support horseshoe as defined in claim 3, wherein the sole support device comprises a spring.

8. The therapeutic support horseshoe as defined in claim 1, wherein the slot is substantially rectangular.

9. The therapeutic support horseshoe as defined in claim 1, wherein the slot is approximately 4 mm deep and 4 mm wide.

10. The therapeutic support horseshoe as defined in claim 1, further comprising a rolled toe, wherein a height of the inner side surface is greater than a height of the outer side surface.

11. The therapeutic support horseshoe as defined in claim 10, wherein the ground-contacting surface slopes up towards the outer side surface at the anterior segment thereby forming the rolled toe.

12. The therapeutic support horseshoe as defined in claim 1, wherein a height or depth dimension of the therapeutic support horseshoe increases linearly between the outer side surface at the anterior segment and the caudal ends.

13. The therapeutic support horseshoe as defined in claim 1, wherein the sole support device includes any of the group consisting of a flange, a rim and a collar.

14. The therapeutic support horseshoe as defined in claim 1, further comprising inserts embedded in the flexile, moldable material for receiving metal protruding studs to extend from the ground contacting surface.

15. The therapeutic support horseshoe as defined in claim 14, wherein the inserts and studs are machined to enable the studs to be inserted into and connected to the inserts.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURE

(1) FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of the preferred embodiment of the horseshoe to be adhesively attached to a horse's hoof;

(2) FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of the horseshoe of FIG. 1 with the polymeric material removed from one side to expose half the hard wear resistant insert and wire;

(3) FIG. 3 is an underside plan view of the horseshoe;

(4) FIG. 4 is a side elevation of the horseshoe;

(5) FIG. 5 is a front elevation of the horseshoe taken at arrow 5 of FIG. 1, showing the polymeric material removed to expose the hard wear resistant insert;

(6) FIG. 6 is a sectional side elevation taken at 6-6 of FIG. 4, showing the hard wear resistant insert with prong extensions and wire exposed;

(7) FIG. 7 is a sectional end view elevation taken at 7-7 of FIG. 4, showing the surface contour and exposed wire of the horseshoe;

(8) FIG. 8 is a sectional elevation of an alternate toe portion embodiment, with hard wear resistant insert completely encased within the polymeric material;

(9) FIG. 9 is still another alternate toe portion embodiment in which the hard wear resistant insert protrudes from the polymeric material;

(10) FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the horseshoe showing width-wise bending of the side and heel portion;

(11) FIG. 11 is similar to FIG. 10, however illustrates the racking ability of the side and heel portions of the horseshoe;

(12) FIG. 12 is a diagrammatic sectional elevation of the preferred embodiment of the horseshoe adhered to a horse's hoof;

(13) FIG. 13 is a diagrammatic sectional elevation of the preferred embodiment, showing uneven wear of the polymeric material as a result of a horse's uneven gait or angular deformities;

(14) FIG. 14 is a sectional elevation of an alternate toe portion embodiment, illustrating dual layers of polymeric material with differing durometers;

(15) FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a therapeutic extension horseshoe of the invention, adjacent a hoof;

(16) FIG. 16 is an enlarged perspective view of the therapeutic extension horseshoe of FIG. 15, including a reinforcing member with wear studs connected thereto;

(17) FIG. 17 is a view exposing the reinforcing member and wear studs;

(18) FIG. 18 is a sectional elevational view taken at 18-18 of FIG. 16, highlighting the reinforcing member with wear studs encapsulated in urethane;

(19) FIG. 19 is a perspective partial cutaway view of an alternative embodiment of the therapeutic extension horseshoe of FIG. 15, wherein wear studs are arranged but are not affixed to the inner reinforcing member;

(20) FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the therapeutic extension horseshoe of FIG. 16, highlighting its bending capability along the long axis;

(21) FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the therapeutic extension horseshoe of FIG. 16, highlighting its rotational capability along the short axis; and

(22) FIG. 22 is a perspective view in partial cutaway of the therapeutic extension horseshoe mounted to a hoof, illustrating the spreading capability when a direct load is placed on the shoe;

(23) FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the therapeutic extension horseshoe mounted to the underside of the hoof during a stride, illustrating the reduced dimension of the ankle and corresponding proximal therapeutic extension horseshoe.

(24) FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a pair of legs with a toe in problem, highlighting the installed therapeutic extension horseshoes and bone structure in phantom;

(25) FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a pair of legs with a toe out problem, highlighting the installed therapeutic extension horseshoes and bone structure in phantom;

(26) FIG. 26 presents a top plan view of a therapeutic support horseshoe of the invention;

(27) FIG. 27a is a perspective view of the therapeutic support horseshoe with approximately one-half cut away but for the reinforcer that highlights the slot on the inner surface and the wedge-like shape;

(28) FIG. 27b is a side cross-sectional view of an anterior section of the therapeutic support horseshoe of FIG. 27a;

(29) FIG. 27c is left-side view of the therapeutic support horseshoe of FIG. 27a highlighting the wedge-like shape and rolled toe;

(30) FIG. 28a is a prior art depiction of a lower leg of a horse fitted without a therapeutic support horseshoe in order to highlight bone alignment;

(31) FIG. 28b is a depiction of a lower leg of a horse fitted with the therapeutic support horseshoe with a wedge shape and rolled toe in order to highlight bone alignment in response thereto;

(32) FIG. 30 is an upper side perspective view of the therapeutic support horseshoe highlighting the wedge shape and slot on the inner inside surface;

(33) FIG. 31a highlights a therapeutic support horseshoe on a horse's hoof, viewed from the underside that includes a sole support device;

(34) FIG. 31b highlights a therapeutic support horseshoe on a horse's hoof, viewed from the rear that includes a sole support device;

(35) FIG. 31c highlights a therapeutic support horseshoe on a horse's hoof viewed from the underside that includes a sole support device comprising a spring;

(36) FIG. 32a highlights an alternative embodiment of the therapeutic support horseshoe that includes inserts and studs on the ground-contacting surface;

(37) FIG. 32b is a side perspective view of the therapeutic support horseshoe of the FIG. 32a embodiment without the studs inserted in the inserts; and

(38) FIG. 32c is a side perspective of the therapeutic support horseshoe of FIG. 32a.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

(39) The present invention teaches a novel design for a preferred horseshoe that closely resembles the natural composition of the equine hoof which conforms to the foot, imitating the known configuration which healthy, active, unshod horses acquire when living in a natural environment, and a novel therapeutic extension horseshoe designed to aid angular deformities in foals through yearlings.

(40) FIG. 1 shows a shoe, or horseshoe 10 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, in spaced relation to the underside of a horse's hoof. The horseshoe 10 is molded in a traditional C-shape with an open heel. For orientation purposes, the shoe provides a toe portion 12, or anterior segment, left side portion 14, right side portion 14′ and heel portions 16, or caudal segments. In practice, it is preferred that portion 14 and 14′ be molded or formed as mirror images in terms of shape and surface contour. On an animal to be shod, the toe portion 12 is the segment of the shoe toward the anterior, or front, and the heel portions 16 are the segments of the shoe toward the caudal, or rear, of the animal. Although described here as segments, these are integrally formed as one piece, and the terms are used to describe their general location in relation to the hoof of a horse.

(41) Referring again to FIG. 1, horseshoe 10 has a top 18, or hoof contact surface, which receives a coating of adhesive 40 prior to placement on the sole of the hoof. In practice, it is desirable that hoof contact surface 18 be roughened or otherwise textured, so as to insure a good bond with the adhesive 40 and the sole of the hoof. A typical hoof contact surface 18 is level, and tapers at the end of the heel portions 16.

(42) Turning now to FIG. 3, the underside of shoe 10 is illustrated. A base 20 and 20′, or ungulate surface, which is the terrain-contacting surface, is formed about the arcuate periphery of side portions 14 and 14′ through the toe portion 12 ending at the heel portions 16. As seen in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, the base 20 and 20′ terminates in smoothly tapered faces 21 and 21′, at heel portions 16. In practice, the base 20 and 20′ is formed level so as to insure good contact with any typically encountered terrain. As seen in FIGS. 3 and 4, shoe 10 is formed with an inwardly tapering, arcuately formed outer edge 24, and inner edge 26. As best seen in FIG. 7, which is a sectional elevation taken through left side portion 14, a bevelled 22, or chamfered surface, forms a transition between the outer edge 24 of the base 20 and inner edge 26. This bevelled 22 form can be optionally formed as a flat surface, or with a slight “belly” as seen in FIG. 7.

(43) During the lifespan of the shoe 10, the width of the base 20 will increase as a result of frictional terrain contact, as bevelled surface 22 is ground down (shown in FIG. 13 and discussed later). This “wearing” of the shoe is desirable, as the material forming the shoe absorbs the impact and does not transfer the stress to the horse's musculature.

(44) Turning now to FIG. 2 a portion of the internal structure of the horseshoe 10 according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention is revealed. In a typical embodiment, the shoe is molded of a polymeric material 36, and preferably hybrid polyurethane. A pliant wire 28, or reinforcer which may be made from metal such as, steel, aluminum alloys, stainless steel and the like, which can be formed and retain a C shape, or arc, is embedded within the horseshoe 10, or it can be totally encapsulated. The wire 28 is preferably formed of a single rod of material, which is then encased within the polymeric material 36 of the shoe, as seen in FIG. 2. The encapsulated wire 28 preferably has a thickness of approximately ⅛″, but the size is predetermined by one skilled in the art of a farrier. To reinforce the toe portion 12 of the shoe, which contacts the ground surface, the invention includes a hard wear resistant insert 30, or hardened reinforcer, preferably made from metal such as steel or another hardened material.

(45) When a metal is used for the reinforcers, one preferred embodiment is a magnetizable metal, which is considered therapeutic by those skilled in equine science.

(46) As shown in FIG. 5, the toe portion 12, the hard wear resistant insert 30 when made of steel is attached to the wire 28 by at least two prong extensions 34. Typically, spot welding, as at 32, is employed to join the hard wear resistant insert 30, prong extensions 34 and wire 28, although other fabrication processes could be contemplated. The hard wear resistant insert 30 preferably is approximately 2½″ in length, ¼″ in width, with prong extensions 34 of approximately ¼″ and the insert preferably is almost completely encapsulated within the moldable polymeric material 36, as seen in FIGS. 5 and 6. It should be noted that polymeric material 36 forms a thin wall around hard wear resistant insert 30; this wall wears away quickly subsequent to installation on the hoof, exposing the hard wear resistant insert 30.

(47) In other embodiments, the hard wear insert is fitted to the anterior segment of the shoe by means other than welding, such as being co-molded with the entire shoe, bonded chemically or by polymeric bonds, joined with mechanical fasteners.

(48) Two alternate embodiments are shown for toe portion 12 in FIGS. 8 and 9. FIG. 8 discloses a profile in which hard wear resistant insert 30 does not depend from the underside of the shoe. FIG. 9 illustrates a hard wear resistant insert 30 which depends from the shoe and is not completely encased within the polymeric material 36.

(49) The moldable shoe generally is molded integrally, in one piece, and is an open ellipse shape. That ellipse is closed from the caudal end portions, through the side segments and the anterior segment, and is open between the two caudal ends. The shoe is flexile, because of the moldable composition and the pliant metal reinforcer, such that the shoe can be conformed to the shape of a horse's hoof. The pliant metal embedded or encapsulated in the shoe enables the farrier to bend it to conform to the circumferential edge of the hoof. That pliant metal reinforcer preferably is joined to the second reinforcer, or hard wear insert, which is fitted to the anterior segment or toe portion of the shoe.

(50) The shoe has a contact surface that is joined to the hoof by adhesives, selected by skilled farriers. The opposite side of the shoe is the ungulate surface, which has the inventive quality of performing like an unshod hoof. The ungulate surface preferably has a sidewall, a crowned edge and an inner wall. The sidewall starts along the outer arc of the ellipse-shaped segments. The sidewall of many conventional metal horseshoes is vertical from the hoof to the ground. The preferable sidewall of the present invention is not vertical, but is chamfered or bevelled in toward the inner arc of the ellipse-shaped segments. The chamfered sidewall, crowned edge and tapering inner wall of one preferred embodiment perform, wear and flex in a way comparable to an unshod hoof.

(51) The horseshoe 10 is molded from polymeric material 36 to form a moldable shoe that is flexile. Polymeric material 36 is available in a vast range of durometer hardness, and flexural qualities. The present invention's durometer on the Shore D scale preferably ranges from 60 to 70 from the Hapflex 600 series device, produced by Hapco Inc. Hanover, Mass. Physical properties:

(52) TABLE-US-00001 661 666 671 Hardness Shore 60D 65D 70D Tensile Strength (psi) 2400 3300 4200 Tear Strength (pli) 420 450 660 Modulus of Elasticity (psi) 000 20 25 60 Heat Distortion Temp. (° C.) 66 psi 122° C. 110° C. 133° C. 264 psi  62° C.  71° C. 124° C. Flexural Strength (psi) 1660 2700 3710 Flexural Modulus (psi) 000 24.6 41 57

(53) As seen in FIGS. 10 and 11, the durometer of polymeric material 36 forming the preferred embodiment allows for flexing and bending of side portions 14 and 14′. This bending or “racking” of the shoe is advantageous for custom fitting of the shoe during installation on a hoof. In particular, racking is illustrated in FIG. 11, where the side portions are stressed in opposing directions about the longitudinal centerline. This flexibility and durability may be required while traversing a rugged trail, in which the horse's hoof is subjected to awkward hoof strikes on rocks, crevices and debris. The ability to flex increases the shoe's durability, as well as mitigating the stress applied to the horse's hoof, ankle and leg.

(54) FIGS. 12 and 13 are diagrammatic sectional elevations of shoe 10, as viewed from the heel portions 16. FIG. 12 shows a new shoe 10 installed with an adhesive 40 layer to a horse's hoof. It is appreciated that the base 20 and 20′ is intact, as is toe portion 12. FIG. 13 illustrates shoe 10 as worn by a horse suffering from an uneven gait or angular deformities. It will be appreciated that the base 20 has been worn down as at 38, the result of compensating for the horse's uneven load forces upon the hoof. The shoed portion of the hoof which takes the greatest measure of ground contact will wear down comparably to that of an unshod hoof.

(55) In addition to the uneven load forces the equine hoof wall may have varying growth rates, the shoe 10 adapts to this uneven growth by wearing therefore the hoof is permitted to strike naturally, as indicated at an angle denoted by “x”. The flexile material does not bind the hoof as does a metal shoe. Unlike prior art, which typically causes discomfort during an uneven hoof strike, shoe 10 allows for the uneven hoof strike and provides both comfort and shock absorption.

(56) The horseshoe 10 according to the present invention is molded from polymeric material 36 with a uniform durometer of hardness. Alternatively, as depicted in FIG. 14 alternate layering of polymeric material 36 with different durometer of hardness in the molding step could be beneficial for some animals or for varied ground conditions. As illustrated in FIG. 14, toe portion 12 is formed with a polymeric material 36 of a durometer for comfort adjacent the hoof, while material 36′ is selected for durability and wear-resistance due to its harder durometer. Persons skilled in the art will rely on their experience to select a moldable composition that provides useful levels of flexibility, wear and resiliency, and to select a reinforcer wire that is sufficiently pliant that adequately holds the desired shape, and to select a hard wear insert material for the horse and the ground conditions. All of these are within the level of skill of an experienced farrier.

(57) Process of Manufacture

(58) The wire 28 is shaped and cut from bar stock to the C shape of the preferred horseshoe 10 which varies in sizes. The wire 28 length is adjusted to fit inside the mold allowing for approximately ½″ where the side portions 14 and 14′ preferably taper to faces 21 and 21′ at the heel portions 16. The toe portion 12 of the wire 28 is attached by spot welds 32 to the prong extensions 34 of the hard wear resistant insert 30. Fabricating the wire 28 and hard wear resistant insert 30 in one piece is an alternative. Another embodiment is spot weld 32 to prong extensions 34 where the hard wear resistant insert 30 would be flush with the base 20 of the horseshoe 10, as shown in FIG. 8, or to spot weld 32 to prong extensions 34 resulting in the hard wear resistant insert 30 projecting out from the polymeric material 36, as shown in FIG. 9.

(59) A mold of the preferred horseshoe 10 is sprayed with a suitable release agent, such as, Grease-It Four, Hapco Inc. The wire 28 with attached hard wear resistant insert 30 is set inside the mold with the ends of the wire 28 suspended by fine line made of plastic, nylon or like material across the heel portions 16, or by using magnets to hold the wire 28 in place or by other means to maintain the wire's 28 position in the core of the mold. An alternate embodiment, when using a magnet to maintain the wire's 28 position in the core of the mold, is to place and secure the magnet on top of the wire 28 allowing the polymeric material 36 to encapsulate it to become part of the horseshoe 10. This alternate embodiment would magnetize the horseshoe 10 providing magnetic therapy to the hoof wall when fitted.

(60) The polymeric material 36 is mixed to a moldable form, in accordance with the chosen product's ratio formula, preferably to a low viscosity, making it easy to handle and pour. Gel time is approximately 30 minutes with a demold time of 2-4 hours, which is the time to reach 80% of cure. Size, mass and temperature effects gel and demold time. For a full cure, some may prefer to allow 7-10 days. Demold and final cure time can be accelerated with the addition of heat.

(61) The mold defines the segments of the shoe, and the shape of the preferred ungulate surface, as described above. When the mold is filled, the composition reaches a level naturally, which forms the generally planar, hoof contact surface.

(62) Once full cure is reached the preferred horseshoe 10 is prepared for attachment. To achieve a surface that bonds well with adhesive 40 the top 18, or hoof contact surface of the preferred horseshoe 10 is sanded to attain a rough appearance and feel as opposed to a smooth, glossy finish realized straight from the mold.

(63) The process for manufacturing the therapeutic extension horseshoe (discussed in detail below in cooperation with FIGS. 15-25) is slightly modified. For example, instead of maintaining the reinforcer (i.e., first reinforcer or wire) close to the contact surface, the reinforcer is maintained in substantially the center with respect to the vertical depth, or halfway between the surfaces. In an embodiment including that the wear inserts (vertical studs) stand alone in the moldable polyurethane material comprising the lateral or medial extension, such that they are not connected to the wire-like, U-shaped reinforcer, they may be inserted into the mold material and set in place as cured.

(64) Alternatively, the wear inserts/studs may be inserted into vias first drilled in the cured material comprising the lateral or medial extension portion. Where the wear inserts/studs are connected to the reinforcer, which is located within, or proximate, the extension within the therapeutic extension shoe, they are first welded to the reinforcer prior to its insertion in the mold, or material in the mold before it is set.

(65) Method of Attachment

(66) The design of the preferred horseshoe 10 is such that it is attached to the hoof by adhesive 40. In the preferred embodiment, the shoe has no nail holes or attachment tabs, and is designed to be adhered to the hoof by adhesive between the contact surface of the shoe and the hoof. Through field testing much success has been achieved by using Equilox, Vettec or Grand Circuit Hoof Adhesive, which are among several products on the market for bonding horseshoes to the hoof. The properties of these adhesives allow the preferred horseshoe 10 to flex and widen without weakening the bond between the horseshoe and hoof.

(67) After the hoof is prepared (trimmed and rasped) and the preferred horseshoe 10 custom fitted, a degreasing agent such as acetone is applied to the perimeter of the sole where the adhesive 40 shall be applied. It is important to have a clean, greaseless surface to achieve a good bond. Alternatively, the contact surface may be roughened so as to accept adhesive and form a bond. A protective foot covering can be used to keep the hoof clean whilst the adhesive 40 is prepared. Hoof adhesive 40 is applied to the top 18, or hoof contact surface of the preferred horseshoe 10.

(68) Alternatively, adhesive can be applied to the perimeter of the sole of the foot, with care being taken not to apply the product in excess. Any excess adhesive 40 can be removed and added to the heel area where required. In some cases where a horse's hoof is weakened from previous nail holes or past ailments this is an appropriate time to patch the area with hoof adhesive 40 during or after fitting the preferred horseshoe 10. The cure time of the hoof adhesive 40 gives a farrier time to set the preferred horseshoe 10 in place and adjust its position if necessary before setting. Cure times vary with environment conditions and products. They range between 2-4 minutes in warm temperatures up to 7 minutes in cold temperatures. Several products on the market have faster cure times than others.

(69) Once the preferred horseshoe 10 is set in place and the hoof adhesive 40 has cured any excess adhesive 40 on the sole, outside of the hoof wall or around the heel area is removed by rasping or use of a sanding tool resulting in a streamline uninhibited foot. The hoof adhesive 40 once cured is comparable to the composition of the hoof wall.

(70) When the horse is due to be shod again the preferred horseshoe 10 is simply trimmed off using farrier's nippers just as if it was hoof wall.

(71) Operation of Invention

(72) The simplicity of the present invention is one of the advantages over prior art. It is devised to be part of the horse's own hoof and function as one, expanding and contracting in the identical direction.

(73) The hoof mechanism in its natural state is designed to be a shock absorber as well as a vital aid to the circulatory system. When a horse is in motion, on contact with the ground surface the weight of the horse compresses the digital cushion between the pastern bone and the sensitive frog and redirects the remainder of the force outwards and upwards to the lateral cartilages (attached to the sides of the coffin bone). The foot expands and widens when under load forces as does the polymeric material 36. As the foot is lifted in stride the digital cushion expands and the foot contracts, as does the polymeric material 36, forcing the blood out of the foot and up the leg.

(74) The polymeric material 36 is designed to wear 38 unlike the deliberations of prior art horseshoes. This characteristic is enhanced by the base 20 of the preferred horseshoe 10. As the base 20 is bevelled 22 from the outside edge 24 of the preferred horseshoe 10 to the inside edge 26 it shall wear 38 more rapidly when subjected to additional force, this wear will slow as the bevelled 22 edge becomes worn and thus wider. For example when a horse's foot hits the ground it may not set it down evenly due to bad confirmation or gait. (Many horses do not have perfect confirmation or way of going.) If more weight is distributed on one heel over a period of time the base 20 of the preferred horseshoe 10 shall wear 38 down more in this area having the effect of self-levelling which in turn prevents the horse's heel becoming jammed up leading to pain and inflammation in the foot. This concave shape of the preferred horseshoe 10 imitates the known configuration which healthy, active, unshod horses acquire when living in a natural environment.

(75) The wire 28 which is encapsulated within the preferred horseshoe 10 does not restrict its flexing and widening capabilities. The wire 28 has two novel and primary purposes. First, is to enable shaping of the horseshoe 10 by a farrier in the field for an individual horse, when the horseshoe 10 is custom formed by hand (pressure applied to widen or reduce the width) the wire 28 retains the shape without the need of special equipment making the procedure quick and efficient. The polymeric material 36 of the preferred horseshoe 10 can simply be cut, sanded or rasped if necessary. Second, is to give the hard wear resistant insert 30 a means of attachment and reinforcement within the polymeric material 36.

(76) The hard wear resistant insert 30 which is attached to the wire 28 gives reinforcement to the toe portion 12 of the preferred horseshoe 10. As this area of the preferred horseshoe 10 is subjected to the most abrasion especially over unnatural surfaces, e.g., tarmac and concrete, the hard wear resistant insert 30 prevents the preferred horseshoe 10 in this area wearing too rapidly, thus extending the time between shoeing.

(77) Therapeutic Extension Horseshoe

(78) As described in detail above, angular deformities occur when the distal extremities of the limb deviate from the midline of the limb. Valgus deformity is a deviation lateral of the mid line. Varus deformity is a deviation medial of the mid line. Lateral and medial therapeutic extension horseshoes of this invention are primarily intended for use on foals or young stock with limb development problems, these shoes extend to the inside (medial) or the outside (lateral). By creating a ground-bearing surface in the position where the foot should be, the active growth plates can adapt to the foot's modified posture. The plates must be actively growing, as you cannot manipulate the deformity once the limb has stopped growing.

(79) The benefit of flexing and moving with the foot is achieved with the therapeutic extension horseshoe, as explained in detail above. That is, the resilient moldable material (for example, urethane or hybrid polyurethane) and the reinforcer act in the same way as in the non-therapeutic horseshoes. As mature horses benefit from the inventive horseshoe described above, the properties are even more important in horseshoes worn by young growing horses when used in cooperation with natural growth cycles to correct for the aforementioned limb deformities.

(80) As described above, using extensions made of acrylic material is known. A DVM or farrier applies and builds up material around the hoof wall to create a platform, instead of using an extension horseshoe. Such a method, however, can be detrimental to the integrity of the hoof wall resulting in a possible flare and wall separation. The therapeutic extension horseshoe provides support across the entire hoof, minimizing distortion to the hoof capsule.

(81) In view of the fact that the therapeutic extension horseshoe is designed to treat young developing horses (foals, weanlings, yearlings), there is no need for a hardened wear insert to be present in the toe or anterior region as foals through yearlings typically are not subjected to the abrasive surfaces present at racetracks. While foals through yearlings are generally too young for this type of work/competition, they do benefit from the inclusion of studs or wear inserts arranged in the lateral or medial extensions.

(82) That is, while foals/yearlings are not necessarily training on special surfaces likely to abnormally wear a horseshoe, the maximum benefit of a therapeutic extension horseshoe is realized where the extended portions of the polyurethane mold structure are not degraded by wear. That rounding or degradation from wear will detract from a maximal therapeutic effect. Hence, by including wear inserts or vertical studs in the extension, the full remedial potential may be realized.

(83) For that matter, the studs may be arranged in the polyurethane mold structure to stand alone, or may be connected directly or indirectly to the reinforcer. The reinforcer may be traditionally U-shaped, or may deviate slightly so that a portion (from the toe to one caudal end) extends into the medial or lateral extension, as shown in the drawing figures. The wear inserts (vertical studs) may be incorporated into the lateral or medial extension portions during fabrication, i.e., molded, or may be inserted into openings or vias drilled or otherwise imposed in the molded material (e.g., polyurethane), forming the extension area after curing.

(84) FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a therapeutic extension horseshoe 100 of the invention, with a layer of adhesive 140, adjacent a hoof. FIG. 16 is an enlarged perspective view of the therapeutic extension horseshoe 100 of FIG. 15, where FIG. 17 is a view exposing a reinforcing member 128 and wear inserts or studs 130. The therapeutic extension horseshoe 100 is molded in a traditional U-shape with an open heel.

(85) For orientation purposes, the shoe provides a toe portion 112, or anterior segment 112, left side portion 114, right side portion 114′ and heel portions 116, or caudal end segments. Although described here as caudal segments, these are integrally formed with the right and left side portions 114, 114′ and anterior segment 112 as one piece, and the terms are used to describe their general location in relation to the hoof of a horse. The therapeutic extension horseshoe 100 has a top 118, or hoof contact surface, which receives a coating of adhesive prior to placement on the sole of the hoof. A typical hoof contact surface 118 is level, and tapers at the end of the heel portions (i.e., caudal end segments) 116.

(86) Therapeutic extension horseshoe 100 is molded of a polymeric material 136, and preferably hybrid polyurethane. A pliant wire 128 or reinforcer is embedded in the hybrid polyurethane according to the method of manufacture. The reinforcer 128 may be made from metal such as, steel, aluminum alloys, stainless steel and the like, which can be formed and retain the U shape when flexed with normal hoof contractions and expansions (between the open heel caudal end segments). The reinforcer 128 is preferably formed of a single rod of material, which is then encased within the polymeric material 136 of the shoe. The encapsulated wire or reinforcer 128 preferably has a thickness of approximately ⅛″, but the size is predetermined by one skilled in the art of a farrier.

(87) As can be seen clearly in FIGS. 15 and 16, therapeutic extension horseshoe 100 includes an extension portion 117, to the right of a virtual line 119 in the plane of the figures. This is the portion to the right of virtual line 119 comprising hybrid polyurethane shaped as to enlarge the size of the platform for one side of the horse's hoof. Please note that assuming the FIG. 15 hoof to be a left front hoof of a yearling facing out of the page, the extension portion 117 (in the orientation shown) may be said to operate as a “lateral” extension (as shown in FIG. 24). The lateral extension extends out from right side portion 114′. Please note, however, that it is an advantage of the invention that the therapeutic extension horseshoe, if affixed to a right hoof (as shown in FIG. 25) may be said to operate as a “medial” extension.

(88) Put another way, merely flipping the shoe will change its operation as a medial or lateral therapeutic extension horseshoe.

(89) To reinforce the extension in right side portion 114′, which contacts the ground surface, the therapeutic extension horseshoe 100 includes one or more wear resistant inserts or studs 130. Three wear inserts or studs 130 are shown in FIG. 17 connected directly to reinforcer 128, preferably welded. FIG. 18 is a sectional elevational view taken at 18-18 of FIG. 16, highlighting the reinforcer 128, as welded by weld 131 to wear insert 130, encapsulated in urethane 136. For that matter, wear inserts or studs 130 are preferably hard wear inserts, and are not pliable.

(90) Please note that while three wear inserts or vertical studs are shown in the drawing figures, any number may be used depending on the intended application. For example, in the foal stage, the weight of the foal is less than that of the yearling and depending on the severity of deformity, the foal's exercise will be controlled (stimulation to growth plates). Hence, therapeutic extension horseshoes constructed for use by foals may not require a stud (vertical insert) for wear resistance or if at all, only one in the area of load bearing extension.

(91) Weanlings are heavier than foals, so hooves and horseshoes shod thereon are subjected to greater load. In this case, more than one stud (vertical insert) may be required to maintain proper form depending on the time that the therapeutic extension horseshoe is attached. Yearlings are heavier than weanlings (and foals). And as mentioned, the more severe the limb deformity the greater the load bearing on the extension and possible wear. Hence, at least two studs (vertical inserts) are required for therapeutic extension horseshoes utilized to treat yearlings.

(92) If one or more studs were not present in the extension, the polyurethane would more readily wear under the additional load having an adverse effect on the limb, at least because the area of wear would likely be lower in profile than the other side of the shoe.

(93) FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the therapeutic extension horseshoe embodiment depicted in FIGS. 15-18. Therapeutic extension horseshoe 102 of FIG. 19 includes that wear inserts or vertical studs 130 are arranged to stand alone in polyurethane 136. They are not affixed to the reinforcer.

(94) FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the therapeutic extension horseshoe 100, 102, highlighting its bending capability with respect to a virtual axis 101. That is, virtual axis 101 bisects the therapeutic extension horseshoe into one half extending from anterior segment 112 through left side portion 114 to caudal end 116 on the left of the figure, and through right side portion 114′ to caudal end 116 on the right of the figure.

(95) The left ghost portions 115 and right ghost portions 115′ (on both sides of each caudal end 116) represent a location into which a portion of the respective side/ends extend/retract with the lateral flexing (i.e., expanding and contracting) with natural hoof movements.

(96) FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the therapeutic extension horseshoe 100, 102, highlighting its rotational capability along the short virtual axis 103. That is, each side portions 114, 114′, including an extension, is able to flex vertically with respect to the lateral plane independently of the other, as does the natural hoof.

(97) FIG. 22 is a perspective view in partial cutaway of the therapeutic extension horseshoe 100, 102 mounted to a hoof in order to illustrate the spreading capability when a direct load is placed on the shoe, and the blood flow to and from the hoof. As mentioned above, blood flow is enhanced by the natural flexing, vertically and laterally with respect to the left and right side portions of the hoof, and these natural movements are not limited in any way by attachment of the therapeutic extension horseshoe 100, 102. A build-up of adhesive 140 is shown to extend up from contact surface 118 to surround at least part of the hoof, which may be applied to the extension horseshoe by the DVM or farrier. This prevents the mare or foal from stepping on the extension part of the therapeutic extension horseshoe, which extends out from the hoof wall, and inadvertently dislodging it.

(98) FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the therapeutic extension horseshoe 100, 102, affixed to the underside of the hoof during a stride. The FIG. 23 perspective illustrates the reduced dimension of the ankle and corresponding proximal therapeutic extension horseshoe.

(99) FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a pair of legs with a toe-in problem, highlighting the installed therapeutic extension horseshoes 100, 102 and bone structure in phantom. The therapeutic extension horseshoes 100, 102, as shown, are operating to provide lateral extensions.

(100) FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a pair of legs with a toe out problem, highlighting the installed therapeutic extension horseshoes 100, 102 and bone structure in phantom. The therapeutic extension horseshoes 100, 102, as shown, are operating to provide medial extensions.

(101) Preferably the therapeutic extension horseshoe is formed of a certain thickness, i.e., of the moldable material. The thickness is normally defined in a range of between ⅛″ to ¾″ but is preferably about ⅜″ to realize a desirable flexibility both in a horizontal dimension, i.e., flexibility of the distance between the caudal ends of the open heel, and in a vertical dimension, e.g., each vertical end may flex with one hoof side, for example, when stepping on a stone that contacts only part of the hoof.

(102) The benefit of flexing and moving with the foot is achieved with the therapeutic extension horseshoe, as explained in detail above. That is, the resilient moldable material (for example, urethane or hybrid polyurethane) and the reinforcer act in the same way as in the non-therapeutic horseshoes. As mature horses benefit from the inventive horseshoe described above, the properties are even more important in horseshoes worn by young growing horses.

(103) As described above, using extensions made of acrylic material is known. A DVM or farrier applies and builds up material around the hoof wall to create a platform, instead of using an extension horseshoe. Such method, however, can be detrimental to the integrity of the hoof wall resulting in a possible flare and wall separation. The therapeutic extension horseshoe provides support across the entire hoof, minimizing distortion to the hoof capsule.

(104) It should be noted that in the above embodiments, the reinforcer is shown to extend into the lateral or medial extension, and connected therein to the wear inserts. The invention however, is not limited to such embodiments. That is, the reinforcer may form the shape of therapeutic extension horseshoe as in the embodiments described in cooperation with FIGS. 1-14, where only the wear insert(s)/vertical studs are disposed in the extension. In a case where the wear insert(s)/vertical studs are connected to the reinforcer, prong extensions are welded at one end to the reinforcer and at its other end to each insert/stud.

(105) As can be seen in the drawing figures, the extension part of the therapeutic extension horseshoe is exaggerated and due to the material the shoe can be modified, i.e. thickness reduced, extension reduced or bevelled, in any area the vet/farrier sees fit for the individual case. It should be apparent that the vet/farrier can further shape the therapeutic extension horseshoe, and in particular the extension in order to address the needs of the young or newborn horse being treated.

(106) For example, the invention anticipates a method of manufacturing a substantially u-shaped horseshoe from a resilient, flexile moldable material formed to have an ungulate surface and a contact surface, between which ungulate and contact surfaces is embedded: a pliable, metal rod-like reinforcer defined by an anterior segment from which opposing side segments continuously extend to caudal ends separated as an open heel and a hardened wear insert connected to the reinforcer at the anterior segment and arranged to extend vertically upward from the reinforcer to the crowned ungulate surface to imbue both flexibility and enhanced wear resistance at the anterior segment.

(107) The method comprises acts of preparing a moldable composition of the moldable material, such as polyurethane, to realize the resilient, flexile moldable material; suspending the reinforcer and wear insert in a mold, wherein the mold defines and limits the rod-like reinforcer to continuously extend from the anterior segment though the opposing side segments to the caudal ends separated as the open heel within the surrounding volume of the resilient, flexile moldable material defining the ungulate and contact surfaces; introducing said moldable composition into said mold under predetermined molding conditions and removing said horseshoe when integrally formed with said reinforcer and wear insert embedded therein.

(108) The invention includes a therapeutic extension horseshoe formed in a substantially u-shape from a resilient, flexile moldable material that is non-metallic. The shoe comprises a pliable, metal rod-like reinforcer shaped to include an anterior segment from which opposing side segments continuously extend to caudal ends separated as an open heel, said reinforcer embedded in the moldable material between ungulate and contact surfaces, wherein an extension is formed in the moldable material comprising one of said opposing side segments to extend a load bearing surface formed in said one opposing side segment in order to facilitate a modification of a posture of a horse shod therewith; and at least one wear insert arranged in said extension between the ungulate and contact surfaces to minimize surface wear to the moldable material therein.

(109) The therapeutic extension horseshoe is configured to that the at least one wear insert is arranged in said extension is integrally connected to said reinforcer. Alternatively, the at least one wear insert is welded to said reinforcer.

(110) In another embodiment, the invention provides a method of manufacturing a therapeutic extension horseshoe comprising a pliable, metal rod-like reinforcer embedded in a resilient, flexile moldable material, molded in a substantially u-shape as an anterior segment from which opposing side segments continuously extend to caudal ends separated as an open heel, wherein the material in which one of the side segments is embedded is formed to include an extension, and wherein at least one wear insert is embedded in the material forming the extension and arranged to extend vertically between ungulate and contact surfaces to imbue both flexibility and enhanced wear resistance at the extension.

(111) The method comprising acts of preparing a moldable composition of the moldable material, such as polyurethane, to realize the resilient, flexile moldable material, suspending the reinforcer and said at least one wear insert in a mold that defines a horseshoe anterior segment extending continuously as opposing side segments, including the extension, to the caudal ends separated as the open heel, the mold and surrounding volume of the resilient, flexile moldable material defining the ungulate and contact surfaces in the substantially U-shape, introducing said moldable composition into said mold under predetermined molding conditions and removing said therapeutic extension horseshoe when integrally formed with said reinforcer and said at least one wear insert embedded within said extension.

(112) Therapeutic Support Horseshoe

(113) In another embodiment, the invention provides a therapeutic support horseshoe 300, as shown in FIGS. 26-32.

(114) The therapeutic support horseshoe 300 is formed of a resilient, flexile moldable material formed in a U shape with an anterior segment 312 from which opposing first 314 and second 314′ side segments continuously extend to opposing caudal ends 316, 316′ separated as an open heel. A pliable, metal rod-like reinforcer 328 is embedded in the flexile moldable material (comprising the therapeutic support horseshoe) between opposing hoof-contacting 318 and ground-contacting 320 surfaces. The reinforcer 328 extends from one caudal end 316 through the anterior segment 312, to the other caudal end 316′ of the horseshoe 300.

(115) The horseshoe 300 includes an inner side surface 324 and an outer side surface 326 between the opposing hoof-contacting 318 and ground-contacting 320 surfaces. The horseshoe 300 includes a slot 327 formed in the inner side surface 324, approximately halfway between the opposing hoof-contacting 318 and ground-contacting 320 surfaces, and extending from the one caudal end 316 to the other caudal end 316′.

(116) In an embodiment, the slot 327 is substantially rectangular as shown. The rectangular slot depicted is approximately 4 mm deep and 4 mm wide, but these dimensions vary based on the overall size of the shoe. The dimensions may vary from 1 mm to 8 mm in either of the slot dimensions. Also, while the slot is shown in the figures as substantially rectangular, the inventive therapeutic support horseshoe is not limited to a slot formed to be substantially rectangular. The slot may take any form that allows for the formation of a rim or flange when a pour-in pad or impression material is added to the shoe.

(117) The therapeutic support horseshoe 300 further comprises a “rolled toe” configuration 329, as shown. A “rolled toe” or a “rolled toe” configuration 329 as shown operates to control breakover. The severity of the slope of the ground-contacting surface 320 at the anterior segment 312, between the inner 324 and outer 326 side surfaces, defines the break. One way of defining the slope is a difference between heights of the outer 326 and inner 324 side surfaces between the ground-contacting 320 and hoof-contacting 318 surfaces. The ground-contacting surface 320 slopes up towards the outer side surface 326 at the anterior segment 312 thereby forming the rolled toe 329.

(118) Please further note the overall shape of the therapeutic support horseshoe as shown in FIGS. 27a, 27c, 28b, 30, 32b and, 32c depicts a wedge shape that is defined by the difference in height between the hoof-contacting surface 318 and the ground-contacting surface 320 as it increases towards the caudal ends 316, 316′.

(119) Preferably such a slope is characterized by a 1°-3° wedge. FIG. 28b highlights the effect on bone alignment with a therapeutic support horseshoe installed in comparison to FIG. 28a without a horseshoe installed. The axial line 330 defines this bone alignment. Axial line 332 depicts the change in bone alignment in response to adding a wedged shoe. Axial line 334 defines where the rolled toe 329 aligns directly beneath the anterior coronary band. The therapeutic support horseshoe 300 includes a sole support device 336 provided between the caudal ends 316, 316′, at least part 338 of which sole support device 336 is received in the slot 327. The part 338 may be said to comprise a flange, a rim or a collar.

(120) Preferably, the sole support device 336 comprises a pour-in pad or an impression material. The pour-in pad comprises a two-part liquid that is mixed and dispensed proximate a sole of a horse's hoof using a dispensing gun and mixing tip. The impression material preferably comprises silicone-based putty.

(121) For that matter, the impression material or pour-in pad may include a spring 340, at least part 342 of which spring device is received in the slot (see FIG. 31c). The spring device is formed in a “V” shape ending in sharpened points (342) to secure the spring in position, preferably in the slot 327. The spring comprises resilient spring steel, approximately ⅛″ in diameter. The spring provides outward pressure to the caudal ends of the therapeutic support horseshoe.

(122) In the embodiment shown, the slot enhances the longevity of the pour-in pad or impression material within the therapeutic support horseshoe once applied to the active horse.

(123) The invention provides another embodiment of the therapeutic support horseshoe 300′ in FIGS. 32a-c; Therapeutic support horseshoe 300′ further comprises inserts 344 embedded in the flexile, moldable material for receiving metal protruding studs 346, which extend from the ground contacting surface 320. For that matter, the inserts 344 and studs 346 are machined as shown to enable the studs to be inserted into and connected to the inserts.

(124) As will be evident to persons skilled in the art, the foregoing detailed description and figures are presented as examples of the invention, and that variations are contemplated that do not depart from the fair scope of the teachings and descriptions set forth in this disclosure. The foregoing is not intended to limit what has been invented, except to the extent that the following claims so limit that.