The effect of open and closed horseshoes on the biomechanics of the equinehoof, analysed by means of a finite element model

A finite element (FE) hoof capsule constructed on IDEAS software masterseri es for model construction and solution, represents a small, symmetrical fro nt foot. Restraints of ground nodes and surface wall nodes were defined for simulation and comparison of three shoeing situations, a regular horseshoe with a toe clip, a closed horseshoe without clips and a closed horseshoe w ith a toe clip and two lateral wall clips, all fixed to the hoof capsule wi th three nails on each side in the dorsal part of the weight bearing border and calculated in a loose nailing condition. Loading was simulated accordi ng to the suspension of the coffin bone at the wall and to a minor extent o ver sole and frog with a total of 3000 N. Von Mises stresses and displaceme nt values both were taken from 30 selected positions, 24 on the hoof wall a nd six on the sole and the frog. Stress values ranged from 0,71 N/mm(2) in the frog area of the regular horseshoe up to 14.25 N/mm(2) of the regular h orseshoe in the heel area. High stress zones were calculated in the proxima l dorsal wall, the distal heel and the lateral hoof wall. The pattern of ho of deformation in general is not changed by horseshoeing to a great extent. Clips are generating high stress values in the surrounding wall. In closed horseshoes the stress values are generally lower compared to the regular h orseshoe. Displacement values showed movements of hoof wall, sole and frog according to the shoeing conditions. Maximal displacement was calculated in the hoof capsule shed with regular horseshoe with a toe clip. High displac ement was calculated in the proximal dorsal wall, the whole heel area and t he lateral hoof wall under all conditions. Displacement was reduced in the capsule with the closed horseshoe with a toe clip and two lateral clips. In the open horseshoe model a high deformation of the frog was evident.