When a Single Day Without Protection Becomes a Crisis
Sometimes, one single day is enough. Mare Gioia – normally fit and active – was without hoof protection for 24 hours. The result: acute supporting limb laminitis with a pedal bone rotation of 10 degrees, diagnosed by the veterinarian. A situation many horse owners know and fear.
But what exactly is supporting limb laminitis? What happens inside the hoof? And how can a therapeutic glue-on horseshoe with a wedge and kneadable padding really help? In this article, we take you with us – from the initial diagnosis to the practical treatment with the RUNA glue-on horseshoe.
Supporting Limb Laminitis: When the Hoof Is Overloaded
Laminitis is one of the most painful conditions in horses. It describes an inflammation of the sensitive laminae – the highly sensitive tissue that connects the pedal bone to the hoof capsule. In supporting limb laminitis, the inflammation is caused by mechanical overload: a horse that suddenly has to go without hoof protection can develop an acute laminitic episode within hours.
Laminitis is an emergency. Until the veterinarian arrives, the horse should stand on very soft ground and the affected leg should be cooled.
- Cavallo.de – Equine Health Editorial Team
What Is Pedal Bone Rotation?
In a healthy hoof, the pedal bone is suspended within the hoof capsule by the laminae. In laminitis, these laminae become inflamed – weakening the connection between the pedal bone and the hoof wall. The laminae, which connect the horn to the living structures of the hoof, tear as a result of the inflammation. For them to grow back properly, they need to be positioned at the correct angle – ideally as parallel as possible.
Due to the ongoing pull of the deep digital flexor tendon, which attaches to the underside of the pedal bone, the pedal bone can rotate out of its normal position. In Gioia’s case, this rotation measured 10 degrees.
Many stories about my patients begin like this: ‘My horse is suffering from acute laminitis, and the rotation is already at 13°! Is there still anything that can be done?’
- Animal naturopath Nehls – expert in laminitis
Many people use the severity of the rotation as a measure of the chances of recovery –
but this is not necessarily the case.
Why Is the Deep Digital Flexor Tendon So Important?
The deep digital flexor tendon runs from the underside of the forearm to the underside of the pedal bone. When the laminar connection is weakened, its pull becomes a problem: it pulls the tip of the pedal bone downward and inward – causing the pedal bone to rotate. The goal of every therapeutic measure in acute laminitis with rotation is to reduce this pull.
By raising the heels (the rear part of the hoof), the angle between the pastern bone and the pedal bone is changed. This relieves the deep digital flexor tendon – and therefore the pedal bone. In the short term, this is an important therapeutic step during an acute laminitic episode.
To relieve the deep digital flexor tendon, which attaches to the underside of the pedal bone, heel elevation is intended to minimize rotation of the pedal bone within the hoof capsule.
- hippophil.de – specialist article on heel elevation in laminitis
However, wedges also have a downside that must be understood. Heel elevation changes the angle at which the laminae are positioned. For long-term recovery, however, the laminae need to grow back at the correct angle – as parallel as possible. If wedges remain in place for too long, they interfere with exactly that: the laminae cannot reconnect and grow together at their optimal angle.
Wedges absolutely serve their purpose – especially during an acute laminitic episode. They reduce the pull of the deep digital flexor tendon on the pedal bone. But they need to come out again. Not after a fixed number of weeks – that is highly individual. You need to watch how the horse moves. If it is landing strongly on the heels, trying to unload the toe and overstretching the leg forwards, this is a sign that the wedges should be reduced. The goal is to eventually manage without wedges, so the laminae can grow back together at the correct angle.
- Vladimir Joffe, founder of Hoofstar
When to Reduce Wedges – and Why This Is Individual
There are no fixed time frames for when wedges need to be reduced or removed. This is always an individual decision – made in close consultation with the veterinarian and with careful observation of the horse. The following signs may indicate that the wedges should be reduced:
- The horse is landing strongly on the heels – it is trying to unload the toe.
- The leg is stretched far forward in order to shift weight onto the heels (in horses, comparable to the human heel).
- The pain symptoms have clearly improved.
As a general rule: wedges are an acute support measure. In the long term, they need to be removed so that the laminae can reconnect at the correct angle and the hoof can recover sustainably.
⚠️ Important: Time frames such as “3 weeks” or “6 weeks” are rough guidelines – not fixed rules. Every horse is different. The decision on when wedges should be reduced or removed should always be made in consultation with a veterinary practice and experienced hoof care professionals.
The Diagnosis
Veterinary findings for mare Gioia after one day without hoof protection:
- Supporting limb laminitis (acute)
- Pedal bone rotation: 10 degrees
- Veterinary recommendation: glue-on horseshoe with wedge and padding
🩺 Important: Every laminitis treatment should be carried out in close consultation with a veterinarian. The treatment described here is based on a specific veterinary diagnosis and recommendation.
The Hoof Preparation by the Farrier
Before the glue-on horseshoe could be applied, the hoof was professionally prepared:
- Trimming the hoof
- Very short toe – up to the white line
- Slight toe relief to unload the front area (see image)
- 6-degree wedges inserted
- Shortened at the front so the toe has clearance
The light gap, visible from another angle, makes it clear: the toe has deliberately been left free. This is not a mistake – it is the goal. And this is exactly why the kneadable padding plays such an important role.
The Key Advantage: Gluing in Under 10 Seconds
Gioia was in so much pain that she could barely hold her legs up. The time window for any work on the hoof was around 10 seconds – then the leg had to be put back down because the strain on the other legs became too great.
This is exactly where the RUNA glue-on horseshoe shows its greatest practical advantage: measuring, putting the shoe on, inserting the wedge and placing the padding – all of this can be done while the horse is standing and within this very narrow time window. No long periods of holding the hoof up. No stress for the horse.
This is a huge advantage of our glue-on horseshoe: we do almost all of the gluing while the hoof is on the ground. Measuring, putting the shoe on – all of that can be done in under 10 seconds. For a horse that can barely stand because of pain, that makes all the difference.
- Vladimir Joffe, founder of Hoofstar
Step 1: Veterinary Diagnosis & Assessment
Every therapeutic measure starts with an accurate diagnosis. X-rays show the degree of pedal bone rotation. The veterinarian determines which wedge angle is appropriate and whether padding is recommended.
Step 2: Professional Hoof Preparation
The hoof is trimmed by an experienced hoof care professional or farrier. In cases of rotation: short toe, possibly toe relief, and appropriate heel preparation. The shoe can only fit correctly on a professionally prepared hoof.
Step 3: Adjust & Fix the RUNA Size
Adjust the RUNA glue-on horseshoe to the hoof width using the 4 adjustment options. Fix the size with the supplied screws and nuts. The shoe should fit closely and securely.
Step 4: Insert the Wedge
Place the appropriate RUNA wedge into the shoe (in Gioia’s case: 6 degrees). The wedge raises the heels and thereby relieves the deep digital flexor tendon. Important: the wedge is an acute support measure – it must later be reduced and removed individually so that the laminae can grow back at the correct angle.
Step 5: Apply the Kneadable Padding
The kneadable padding made from two-component silicone is mixed and pressed into the hoof. Carefully put the shoe on. The horse’s weight distributes the silicone evenly across the frog and sole. Any excess material can be trimmed away cleanly after curing.
Step 6: Prepare the Hoof & Glue the RUNA
Roughen the hoof wall with the fine side of the rasp and degrease it using an alcohol wipe. Degrease the inside of the shoe as well. Glue the tabs from back to front – each tab individually, pressing it on evenly for 5–10 seconds.
Step 7: Check & Reduce the Wedge Individually
There is no fixed schedule – the decision on when wedges should be reduced or removed is always individual. Observe how the horse moves: is it landing strongly on the heels, with the leg stretched far forward? This may be a sign that the wedges should be reduced. The goal is to eventually manage completely without wedges, so the laminae can reconnect at the correct angle.
RUNA Glue-On Horseshoe
RUNA is the core of the treatment. As a ready-to-use glue-on horseshoe without welding or cutting, it can be applied to the standing horse within just a few minutes – ideal for laminitic horses in pain that cannot tolerate holding the hoof up. Reusable, flexible and made in Nordfriesland.
- Application in under 5 minutes
- Gluing on the standing horse – no stress
- Durability: 5–9 weeks depending on use
- Compatible with wedges, kneadable padding and Widia pins
Our Range of Glue-On Horseshoes
Subtle, clean and elegant – RUNA in White is the discreet alternative for everyone who does not want a black glue-on hoof protection, but also does not want bright colors on the hoof. Especially on light-colored hooves, white RUNA blends in very harmoniously and looks pleasantly understated. 100% RUNA glue-on hoof protection. Why RUNA White? Discreet on light-colored hooves: The white color matches light horn particularly well and looks much more subtle than black. Clean instead of colorful: Ideal for everyone who likes a simple look – no black, no bright colors, just a calm, elegant appearance. Elegance meets simplicity: RUNA arrives ready to use. You can adjust it in just a few minutes – without crafting, without technical stress and without a professional background. Quick to glue: Apply superglue in a thin layer, press each tab evenly for 5–10 sec. – done. Reliable hold: On degreased, dry and freshly roughened horn, the glue-on hoof protection holds reliably. Made in Germany: Developed and produced in Northern Frisia – regionally manufactured, delivered directly. Application in 4 steps (RUNA glue-on hoof protection) Adjust: Adjust the RUNA glue-on hoof protection to the hoof width and fix it in place. Roughen: Carefully roughen the hoof wall with the fine side of the rasp so that patina and dirt are removed. Degrease: Clean with an alcohol wipe and allow it to evaporate completely. Do not touch the prepared bonding surface afterwards to avoid contamination. Glue: Apply superglue in a thin layer to each tab and press the tab evenly with both thumbs for 5–10 sec. The tab is then permanently fixed. Good to know Subtle color option: RUNA White is perfect for light-colored hooves and for everyone who prefers a simple look. Repairable: With the RUNA Repair Kit, the inner lining can be renewed if needed – old glue residues must be thoroughly removed/filed off beforehand. Choosing the right size: As usual with RUNA, choose the size according to the hoof width. Size chart RUNA White Size Hoof width Max. hoof length 14 13.8 – 14.7 cm 14.5 cm 13 12.7 – 13.9 cm 14 cm 12 11.6 – 12.8 cm 13 cm 11 10.9 – 11.9 cm 12 cm 10 9.7 – 10.9 cm 10.9 – 11.1 cm Between two sizes? Wider towards the heels / rather triangular hoof? → Choose the smaller size and adjust it as wide as possible. Rather round hoof? → Choose the larger size and adjust it as small as possible. Product safety information Glue-on tab system RUNA White, available as a set including glue, alcohol wipe, screws and nuts or as a single shoe with screws and nuts. Manufacturer and responsible person: Hoofstar, Vladimir Joffe, Mirebüll 3, 25858 Högel, Germany, www.hoofstar.com
Untamed energy, dynamic drive, explosive power – concentrated in an elegant design that can be glued on in minutes. The RUNA “Fire Horse” Edition celebrates the Chinese Year of the Horse with a bold look: one side red, one side orange. Visible. Full of character. 100% RUNA glue-on horseshoe. Why RUNA “Fire Horse”? Power at the hoof: The red/orange duo stands for forward drive and presence – perfect for training, trail rides, and competitions. Elegance meets simplicity: RUNA arrives ready to use. In just a few minutes you adjust it – without tinkering, without tech stress, and without any crafts background. Quick to glue: Apply super glue thinly, press each tab evenly for 5–10 sec. – done. Secure hold: On degreased, dry, freshly roughened horn, the glue-on shoe holds reliably. Made in Germany: Developed and produced in Nordfriesland – made locally, shipped directly. Application in 4 steps (RUNA glue-on horseshoe) Adjust: Set the RUNA glue-on horseshoe to the hoof width and lock it in place (simple screw click system). Roughen: Carefully roughen the hoof wall with the fine side of the rasp (remove patina/dirt). Degrease: Clean with an alcohol wipe (included in the starter set) and let it evaporate briefly. After that, do not touch with bare hands. Glue: Apply super glue thinly to each tab, press 10 sec. per tab. Let it cure briefly – and you’re ready to go. Good to know Limited Edition: available only while supplies last. Repairable: With the RUNA Repair Kit, the inner liner can be replaced if needed – remove/file off old glue residue beforehand. Choosing the size: As usual with RUNA, choose based on hoof width. Fire Horse size chart Size Hoof width Max. hoof length 14 13.8 – 14.7 cm 14.5 cm 13 12.7 – 13.9 cm 14 cm 12 11.6 – 12.8 cm 13 cm 11 10.9 – 11.9 cm 12 cm 10 9.7 – 10.9 cm 10.9 – 11.1 cm Between two sizes? Wider at the heels (triangular)? → choose the smaller size and adjust it to the maximum width. More round? → choose the larger size and adjust it as small as possible. Product safety information Glue-tab system RUNA Fire Horse, as a set with glue and alcohol wipe including screws and nut, or as a single shoe with screws and nuts. Manufacturer and responsible person: Hoofstar, Vladimir Joffe, Mirebüll 3, 25858 Högel, Germany, www.hoofstar.com
The popular RUNA glue-on shoe is now available in Ice Blue – only for a short time! RUNA arrives ready to mount, is quickly adjusted, and is applied with cyanoacrylate (super glue) directly on the standing hoof. No trimming, no welding, and an open sole for a natural feel. Highlights Fast & easy: Delivered ready to use, size adjustment via click interlock + screw, then glue each tab in sequence. Cyanoacrylate principle: Apply thinly, press each tab for 5–10 sec – no preheating needed. Open sole: Breathable, easy to clean – ideal for everyday use and training. Made in Germany: Designed, tested, and produced in the north – direct from the manufacturer. Limited Edition: Trend color Ice Blue – only while stocks last. Quick how-to Determine hoof width, set RUNA via click interlock and fix with the screw. Spread tabs one by one, apply cyanoacrylate thinly, press for 5–10 sec. After gluing, rasp off any excess if needed. Tip: For extra grip, our tungsten-carbide studs (Widia) can be inserted into the designated holes (up to 6 per hoof). Use caution on hind hooves/loose housing because of injury risk. How to glue – short & sweet Prepare: Thoroughly roughen the hoof with the fine side of the hoof rasp. Keep the rasp clean and grease-free. Thoroughly degrease. After roughening, do not touch the hoof with your hands to avoid re-contamination. Adjust: Set the size, click in the bridge, fix with the countersunk screw. Glue: Apply cyanoacrylate (RUNA) to clean, dry, fresh horn – place, press, done. All steps in the video tutorial. Variants & pricing Starter kit (1 pair of RUNA + glue + cleaning wipe + instructions) – €75 Single shoe – €37 Sizes Size Hoof width Max. hoof length 14 13.8–14.7 cm 14.5 cm 13 12.7–13.9 cm 14 cm 12 11.6–12.8 cm 13 cm 11 10.9–11.9 cm 12 cm 10 9.7–10.9 cm 10.9–11.1 cm Between two sizes? Wider toward the heels (triangular)? → choose the smaller size and set to the maximum width. More round? → choose the larger size and set as small as possible. Why Hoofstar Since 2016 we’ve been developing simple, durable, well-thought-out hoof protection solutions – Made in Germany. RUNA combines function, comfort, and sustainability. 👉 Order RUNA in Ice Blue Product safety information RUNA adhesive tab system Ice Blue, available as a set with glue and alcohol wipe including screws and nut, or as a single shoe with screws and nuts. Manufacturer and responsible person: Hoofstar, Vladimir Joffe, Mirebüll 3, 25858 Högel, Germany, www.hoofstar.com
RUNA Wedges – Therapeutic Heel Elevation
The Hoofstar wedges are designed to fit RUNA precisely. They are sold individually per shoe – allowing different heights to be used on the left and right hoof if needed.
- Available in 1-degree increments (1° to 5°, custom sizes on request)
- Developed & produced in Germany
- Only for RUNA – stable fit, quick to insert
- Therapeutic use only in consultation with veterinarians
⚠️ Gioia was fitted with 6-degree wedges. For individual wedge angles outside the standard range, Hoofstar produces custom sizes – simply send an email request to: info@hoofstar.com
Kneadable Padding – Two-Component Silicone
The kneadable padding made from two-component silicone has two key functions – and they have nothing to do with germ protection:
1. Even Load Distribution
In Gioia’s case, the toe was trimmed very short and given toe relief – deliberately. The toe should not have ground contact. At the same time, the wedges in the shoe were cut out so that there is real clearance in this area. The silicone fills exactly this hollow space. Through the horse’s weight, it spreads across the entire frog and sole. The result: the weight is no longer carried by the toe, but distributed evenly across the whole hoof.
2. Protection Against Dirt in the Relieved Toe Area
The relieved toe has clearance – and that is intentional. However, without protection, small stones and dirt would settle in this hollow space. And then exactly what should be prevented would happen: the ground would transfer pressure onto the toe. The silicone permanently fills this space. It remains soft, does not pass on pressure, and prevents the relieved toe from regaining ground contact simply because dirt has settled inside.
The kneadable padding ensures that the entire load is not placed on the toe. The whole frog and sole become weight-bearing. And the second function: it fills the hollow space we created by trimming back the toe – so that no dirt gets in and the toe does not regain ground contact. This has nothing to do with germ protection.
- Vladimir Joffe, founder of Hoofstar
Conclusion: Laminitis Is Not a Final Verdict – with the Right Shoe, Progress Is Possible
Gioia’s story shows that even acute supporting limb laminitis with a 10-degree pedal bone rotation can be managed well with the right approach. The key lies in close cooperation between the veterinarian, farrier and horse owner – and in using the right tools.
The RUNA glue-on horseshoe with wedge and kneadable padding offers a gentle, flexible and effective way to provide therapeutic support for laminitic horses. No nailing, no welding, no unnecessary stress for the horse.
Wedges serve their purpose – therapeutically, in consultation with the veterinarian, and with the awareness that they will eventually need to come out again. So the laminae can reconnect at the correct angle. That is the goal.
- Vladimir Joffe, founder of Hoofstar
Do You Have Questions About Laminitis Treatment with RUNA?
Contact us directly – via WhatsApp or by email at info@hoofstar.com. We will advise you personally and help you find the right solution for your horse.
Discover the RUNA glue-on horseshoe now: www.hoofstar.com
Note
This article is intended for general information only and does not replace veterinary diagnosis or treatment. Any therapeutic measure for laminitis should be carried out in close consultation with a veterinarian. RUNA wedges are therapeutic products – their use requires a professional diagnosis and hoof preparation.