Equine biomechanical orthotic device and method of use

Abstract

A device for addressing normal cyclic limb/hoof loading that causes devastating consequences in a horse at risk for SLL or suffering from acute laminitis. Weight force/ground reaction force interaction is cyclically loaded and offloaded to enhance perfusion of the supporting lamellar apparatus, solar corium, and other hoof structures with nutrient laden blood and removal of the lymph fluid with toxic waste products. The device causes a forced cyclic hoof motion of the loaded or unloaded patient in a lateral recumbency pained hoof. The motion is applied to hydraulically force or enhance the tissue perfusion of the hoof's internal structures and enhance or reestablish normal health of the hoof. Various externally applied forces are utilized, including mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and other manners, to increase the reduced or non-existent cyclic loading of the limb. The device can be used to measure/record movement and adjust cyclic frequencies and range of motion.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.