Heart-bar shoes are indeed valuable tools in treating certain hoof conditions like laminitis and flat feet. Here are the key benefits and features of heart-bar shoes:
Treatment for Laminitis: Heart-bar shoes are commonly used in the treatment of laminitis. By providing support to the coffin bone and redistributing weight bearing, these shoes can help alleviate pain and promote healing in horses suffering from laminitis.
Support for Flat Feet: Horses with flat feet can benefit from heart-bar shoes as well. The shoe design helps mimic the natural weight-bearing pattern of the foot, providing support to the entire foot structure and reducing strain on flat feet.
Restoration of Natural Pattern: Heart-bar shoes restore the frog and wall to a more natural weight-bearing pattern, which is crucial for promoting proper hoof function and overall hoof health.
Coffin Bone Support: The support offered by the heart-bar shoe to the coffin bone is essential for a speedy recovery and realignment of the hoof structures.
Roll Toe and Safed Off Heel: The incorporation of a roll toe and safed-off heel in the shoe design enhances comfort and promotes a more natural breakover, reducing stress on the hoof and joints during movement.
Standard Side Clips: Side clips are standard features in heart-bar shoes, providing additional stability and preventing the shoe from shifting or rotating on the hoof.
Countersunk Stud Holes: The countersunk position for stud holes allows for the easy application of studs, providing traction when needed, especially in slippery or challenging terrain.
Pitched Nail Holes: The heart-bar shoe incorporates pitched nail holes, offering different angles for each nail. This design feature makes it easier for farriers to secure the shoe firmly and accurately on the hoof.
Overall, heart-bar shoes play a crucial role in supporting and treating hoof conditions that require specialised support and realignment of hoof structures. Their design features contribute to improved comfort, stability, and overall hoof health in horses undergoing treatment for laminitis, flat feet, and related issues.