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Fittings that support treatment and special needs
Most horses get by with ordinary shoes, but some have needs that require more. Special shoes are used when a hoof needs to be relieved, supported or protected in a particular way — often as part of a treatment the veterinarian oversees.
Special shoes come into play with hoof diseases, malformations, stiffness from joints and tendons, or after injuries. The principle is to change how the hoof is loaded, or to protect a sensitive area – without hindering the hoof's natural function more than necessary.
Beyond ordinary steel shoes, other materials can be used and various insoles and pads that support or cushion the sole. The choice depends on the need, the horse's use and the environment it lives in. Material knowledge and smithing go hand in hand here.
Therapeutic shoeing requires close follow-up. The hoof and horse respond over time, and the shoe must often be adjusted along the way. Good documentation of what was done and why makes it possible to evaluate the effect and adjust further treatment.