Some recent and not so recent research has prompted my writing this article. Over the past two decades horseshoe manufactures have been inadvertently or perhaps purposely setting trends that could be proving to be detrimental to even those horses that go barefoot. You read it right; trend set by horseshoe manufacturers could have an effect on your barefoot horse. Not through their production of horseshoes, but rather by the style of shoes that they produce.

Thinking back to when I began as a farrier almost 25 years ago, I can remember making my weekly pilgrimage to the local farriers supply store to purchase the required horseshoe inventory to stock my shoeing truck for the week. I would calculate the number of pairs and the sizes I would need for the coming weeks’ work. As my business increased, it became more difficult finding the time to make those weekly trips, and I soon found myself buying inventory for the month.

Establishing a horseshoe inventory was pretty straightforward. I, like most farriers at that time, would buy fullered, punched keg shoes by the case, in the most common sizes 00, 0, 1, 2, 3. The term keg shoe defines the most common of machine made horseshoes. The keg shoe comes in a generic oval shape and was called the “keg shoe” because they were originally shipped in kegs (barrels). This type of shoe almost always needed to be shaped to fit the hind or front foot of the horse. All too often the hurried farrier simply would spread, or close the shoe to fit a foot, and then shape the foot to the shoe., rather than the shoe to the foot.

This practice was likely the first in the beginning of what would become trend, started by the type of shoe that was available from a shoe manufacture. It was the shape of the early manufactured keg shoes where it all began, trend setting.

As new manufacturing techniques developed, manufactures began producing shoes in a variety of new shapes. The first new style shoes to be offered were front and hind pattern shoes which came out of Europe. American farriers who at the time were taking flack for setting the trend of long toe and low heels, this said to help increase stride, were quick to embrace this convenient way of addressing breakover. This ws the beginning of a new trend, ont that may prove to be just as damaging to today’s horse as long toes and under run heels.

It was the hind pattern shoe that really changed things. The hind pattern shoe was the first readily available shoe to be offered with a square toe. Quickly manufacturers introduced hind shoes with ready-made side clips, and front shoes with toe clips. The front shoe pattern was often rounder than the standard keg shoe that many of the farriers were using at the time. This may have been why some farriers began using hind patterns on the fronts of the horse; this proving to be a simple way of providing a square toe to the front foot, making fitting easier.

Twenty years ago, the square toed horseshoe, was more often viewed as a remedial or corrective type horseshoe. It was not often used as a keg shoe. Prior to being able to purchase the square-toed shoe, the square toe needed to be forged.

Over about a ten year period pattern shoes flooded the market.

American based companies began producing front pattern shoes that were not as round as the European type pattern shoes. These new patterns more closely resembled the traditional keg shoe. With increase in production came price reductions, making it more economical to purchase clipped shoes, rather than forging them. In the mid nineties Eventer-type shoes were introduced. These pattern shoes had a rolled cross section, claiming to aid in breakover, they also came in front and hind patterns.

About the mid nineties, we say increase in the use of the Natural Balance Shoe (NBS), which was fashioned after the footprint of the feral horse. It too had square toe and came in front and hind patterns. Each time a new shoe was introduced, it was accompanied by claims that the shoe aided breakover, and / or provided needed heel support. This is still true today, of most newly developed horseshoes.
So where is all this going?

To the point, shoe manufacturers have been setting trends that influence the way the farrier addresses the foot.

Recently, I have compiled research on a little understood malady that affects many of today’s horses, the black hole seedy toe.

Our research began in 2001, the opening of the International Institute of Equine Podiatry. Inc., since which time we have examined over 1200 hoof cadaver specimens. We observed a dramatic increase in the occurrence of black hole-type seedy toe. Investigation has now provided evidence that suggest that various trimming and shoeing trends could be that cause for this increase in the incidence of this malady.

Our research has shown that more often that not, the black hole is evidence of a Hyper Keratinized Horn mass, located at the creana marginalis of the coffin bone (seen as a notch in the coffin bone). One theory suggests that an abnormal increase in the size of the creana marginalis was likely due to a compromised blood supply. Further studies implicate that the cause of manifestation of the HKH mass at the site of the creana marginalis is stress.

Biopsies were taken from twenty (20) specimen masses and prepared for examination. Opinions gathered from several pathologists were unanimous; the HKH mass was the result of hyperplasia of epithelial cells with keratinization, this likely caused by stress.

Microphotographs of tissue samples from the masses often showed elongated secondary epidermal laminae (SEL); this occurrence has been associated with changes in response to stress.

Measurements were taken of the solar foot print of the twenty specimens from which the masses were harvested. This showed us that the greater the variance in balance, the larger the mass often appeared. The most widespread causes of imbalance were the under run heel, and the creation of excessively short breakover.

The research has allowed us to develop a number of hypotheses.

1. The theory that abnormal increases in the size of the creana marginalis of the coffin bone is the result of a compromised blood supply due to long toes is no longer tenable.
2. Research supports the theory that abnormal increases in the size of the creana marginalis may be nature’s way of increasing surface area in response to increased stress.
3. Evidence supports the theory that stress and the resulting HKH mass is the cause of the enlargement of the creana marginalis of the coffin bone.

Our conclusion are that trends perpetuated by various shoe types and various trimming techniques proposed over the past decade, are responsible for an increase in the development of the HKH mass, and the resulting black hole seedy toe. The majority of the proposed techniques promote dramatic reduction in breakover, which can lead to improper positioning of the coffin bone within the hoof capsule. There are a number of factors that have surfaced, many of which are the result of improper trimming.

What this all means to those of you that have chosen to go shoeless with your horse, is that you should look more closely at the way your horse is being trimmed.

Here are some recommendations that may help in preventing mass growth, and may aid in stabilization of an existing condition.

1. Aggressive rolling of the wall at the toe should be avoided. Avoid dubbing the wall or rockering of the toe into or palmar of the whiteline.
2. Avoid ground parallel coffin bones.
3. Do not lower the heels to the viable (live) sole at the angle of the bar/wall (often results in ground parallel coffin bone).
4. Under run heels do not justify radical break over placement.
5. Treating of black hole seedy toe with topical solutions or soaks will do little to remedy the problem.
6. Balance should be addressed and any cause of stress relieved; this does not mean excessive removal of material at the toe.

This new evidence bring into question the Universal Sole Trim theory, Natural Balance trim, and any other method that may disrupt balance, causing stress at the site of the creana marginalis (tip of coffin bone).

There are far more studies to be done. Immunology studies are underway, and further research into the cause of the HKH mass is ongoing.

About the Author: KC La Pierre, RJF, PhD is the Co-Founder of the Institute of Applied Equine Podiatry, Inc. A professional Farrier for over two decades, a researcher, and educator. KC La Pierre is a proud member of the Guild of Professional Farriers and a traditional Journeyman Blacksmith. Recongnized by many as one of the foremost Applied Equine Podiatrist in the world today. His lectures and teachings have been presented throughout the U.S. and Abroad. His innovative approach to teaching the art of Applied Equine Podiatry has met with rave reviews the world over.

For more information on Applied Equine Podiatry please visit the Institute’s web site at http://www.appliedequinepodiatry.org

Want to look and feel just a little bit sexier? That’s one thing sexy lingerie will do for you. But when shopping for sexy lingerie, why stop with that babydoll, camisole or chemise? There are many accessories available you can get to complement that sexy lingerie outfit. There are also a some lingerie fashions, some called erotic lingerie, that will spice things up just a bit more.

Topping the accessory list are garter belt sets. These sexy lingerie items, together with stockings, can provide a convenient alternative to stockings. Currently very popular, garter sets are available in a variety of colors and materials. Another set of popular hosiery accessories to complement your lingerie, Knee hi and thigh hi stockings are also available in a variety of styles, colors and materials. As the terms suggest, knee hi’s cover the legs up to the knee while thigh hi’s cover the legs up to the thigh.

Other items to accessorize your lingerie include gloves; some stretch lace or satin gloves can add an extra sensuous look when wearing them. A leg garter can also be used as an add on accessory, as well as nylon anklets. Simply put, a vast number of lingerie accessories are available to be used when wearing lingerie. Be sure to look for these when doing your lingerie shopping.

Also available are some erotic lingerie items you might consider spice it up a bit. Open cup bras or babydolls are popular, these are bras with no support cups and usually cause the shape of the nipple to be visible. When looking to spice things up, crotchless and even edible panties can also be worn for erotic effect, so give them a try. Want to reveal as much of the breast as possible? try some pasties. Pasties vary in size and are used to cover a person’s nipples, thereby revealing much of the breast without being totally topless.

So, when shopping for sexy lingerie and intimate apparel, don’t forget to also select from a variety of lingerie accessories to complement your purchase. And while you’re at it, don’t be shy and try some erotic lingerie to and spice things up a bit. Happy lingerie shopping!

Susan is the owner of Seduction Lane Lingerie. An online retailer of sexy lingerie, costumes and intimate apparel. Visit http://www.seductionlane.com for a vast selection of sexy lingerie at great prices.

Bowling shoes are not equal. In general, occasional bowlers are not well aware that bowling shoes lead vastly to the execution of a bowler. Finding their own pair of the shoes is very important thing in order to surpass in bowling. Below are 5 tips to think when purchasing:

Price – Tip #1
Study the price of the bowling shoes. Various brand and durability of the shoes affect the price. Shoes for advanced and intermediate bowler may have more expensive price than the novice shoes. Take less expensive shoes for an inexpert bowler or just an occasional bowler who usually bowls just to have fun.

Size and Width – Tip #2
Choosing the right size and the width of bowling shoes is very crucial. Try the shoes on before purchasing them. The shoes should not fit too tight or be too loose on the feet so that they are comfortable and allow for mobility.

Right or Left Handed – Tip #3
Right-handed bowlers and left-handed bowlers have their own type of bowling shoes . It is crucial to find out if the shoes are for left-handed persons if he is left-handed because each shoe in a pair has its own role. One shoe is for sliding while the other shoe is for braking. If a person is left-handed, then he should choose a shoe where the right side is for sliding and the left for braking, vice versa.

Collars and Padded Linings – Tip #4
Bowling shoes that have collars and padded linings or have cushioned insoles must be selected. These features can offer much comfort for bowlers, and give support and minimize the movement of the feet in the shoes. Maintaining balance while sliding on the lanes is supported by these shoes.

Experts Suggestion – Tip #5
Shopping around prior to selecting a pair of bowling shoes is needed. They can be purchased in sporting goods stores and in the malls. Ask an expert in bowling about which brands they have tried and proved.

The need of bowling shoes are very crucial if bowlers want to get better on their performance in bowling. Renting these shoes at the bowling alley can be considered if the bowlers have limited budget. However, it is recommended to have their own bowling shoes if they bowls on a steady basis.

Are you a victim of the most common bowling mistakes among bowlers worldwide? Check out our site http://www.BowlingBetter.com for more FREE bowling tips, news, and information to play bowling better. Find your quality apparel, accessories, books, video and DVD at Pro Shop

For many years skincare has been the sole preserve of the ladies. After all, men don’t need it, do they?

As I came downstairs to breakfast the other day, my wife stroked my cheek lovingly.

‘Your skin is so soft!’ she said almost wonderingly. ‘I really don’t know how you manage it!’

Now my wife is a dear, dear woman but she thinks that a soft skin is only achievable by using amounts of night cream, day cream, anti-wrinkle cream (not that she has any anyway!), protein cream and just about any other cream that the cosmetic companies can dream up.

She, like many other ladies, is convinced that many men have made a pact with the Prince of Darkness in return for facial skin that is not only soft but free from spots and blemishes. I will probably be marked for use as a bridge support filler or receive a nice pair of concrete overshoes from the League For Excessively Scratchy Chins for revealing the truth but I can contain myself no longer: men really do use skincare products!

There. I’ve said it. What a relief to finally ‘come out’ (about men’s skin, that is). The thing that is different about men’s facial skincare and that used by women is that men don’t pay anywhere near as much for theirs – and that’s because men do something to their faces every day that women never, ever do. They shave.

Now I know women shave their legs and sometimes other unmentionable bits. All we men know that. But they don’t do it every day. So why does that make a difference?

Oh, well, the cat’s out of the bag now so I may as well tell you everything. The act of shaving, when done daily, is an excellent exfoliant. A razor doesn’t only take away the stubble from the chins and cheeks of the average male, it also removes quite a few of the old dermal cells. This tends to leave our homely pans soft and smooth – especially if you use (as an increasing number of today’s guys do) a straight razor.

That’s the reason why – when we’re freshly planed off – the facial skin of your everyday male is as soft as a woman’s that has had enough cream on it to make a raspberry pavlova. The only problem is that it doesn’t last. Hence the tendency in recent years for an increasing number of guys to reach for the bottle.

The skincare-for-men bottle, that is. I’m not convinced that I am the first to have uttered this truth as to the original method of skincare for men – shaving – and doubtless the cosmetic companies’ intelligence task force has been keeping their ear well and truly stuck to the floor over the years. So what do we have now? You got it in one – cream for men.

Oh, they don’t call it ‘cream’. Far too girly. It’s called ‘rejuvenating facial cream’ or something equally crafty – it simply wouldn’t do to call it ‘day cream’ or ‘cool night cream’, would it? It’s done like this. After we men have carefully eradicated all traces of stubble, in proper manly fashion with some horribly sharp steel, we are smiled at from some webpage by an incredible hunk with biceps like footballs and a six-pack made of very large ballbearings who suggests that it would be a good idea to – moisturise our skin!

And do you know what the worst thing about it is? Yep. It works. Guess what I got for Christmas last year? Worse still, guess what I bought recently? Resistance, as has been said, was futile.

The male skincare culture steamroller is gathering momentum. We poor males, hapless victims of our own primitive but effective skincare method, have been sucked into mainstream skincare by forces we can hardly comprehend. What happened to the good old days when the only perfume men wore was good, honest sweat and we all changed our socks once a week even if they were reasonably pong-free? When boxer shorts were things boxers wore and after-shave lotion was considered only fit for wearing on a hot date?

Don’t know about you but I sure thank my lucky stars they’re firmly in the past! Now where’s my anti-aging wrinkle-destroying masculine protein emollient?

Steve Dempster is a recent and happy convert to modern men’s skincare and doesn’t mind anymore who knows it. Learn more here about shaving and skincare products for men.

Are you tired of your aftershave lotion? Are you unable to find an effective shaving gel? Do you think searching for any productive product is simply wasting money on useless items? Are you a man worried of problems like pimples, blemishes and wrinkles on your skin? If yes, then read the secrets for men skin care.

Men skincare is just as important as woman’s. The misleading notion that men should not follow a beauty routine is a story of the past. Everyone has a right to enjoy clear and smoother skin, which is possible by taking a little care of which type of product you put on or use on your skin.

Since male skin comes in to contact with the sun and dust more than women, extra care should be taken. Always wear a sun-block lotion with a suitable range of SPF before going out; it should be water proof to help resist your skin from UV ray damages. Regularly wash your face with a good soap-free wash to clean the dirt and oil.

Regularly use a cleanser to get a clearer skin, a gentle skin massage helps the face pores to open and breathe oxygen which will rejuvenate the glow of your face. Also, use a moisturizer if you have a drier skin type and toner specially designed for men. Using shaving lotions and gels which suit your skin type and does not produce redness and itching during or after usage will be your best bet.

Always remember that there is no supplement that can beat natural ingredients, as they are harmless and work much better than their synthetic counterparts which may also have certain serious after effects. The products which are made of natural extracts should always be preferred. Some of these are CoQ10, antioxidants such as retinol and beta carotene, and other naturally obtained substances like phytessence wakame and cynergy TK.

All these ingredients are excellent for our skin. They stimulate natural collagen and elastin in the skin tissues and therefore bring back our youthful glow and radiance. Other than these, vitamin A and C are also added to various products meant for men’s skincare. These are antioxidants and are useful for minimizing the effects of oxidation.

Another men skin care requisite is using after-shave lotion or a toner. It smoothens the skin after harshness of shaving and makes it more even. But be aware that the product you are using should never contain alcohols, preservatives and fragrances since they are not good for our skin health and cause different problems, the biggest of which is skin cancer itself.

Following these steps can lead you to a perfect complexion and a problem-free skin.

John Gibb is a dedicated researcher of skin care health and products. He shares his research on his website – Natural Skincare. If you have unwanted wrinkles, fine lines and damaged skin, visit – How to achieve the best looking skin naturally now to learn about the skin care line our editors personally use and recommend.

We have personally been using these products with excellent results.

Do you use estee lauder cosmetics? Okay, let’s say you do for a moment. How do you really know if estee lauder cosmetics are ideal for your skin? Maybe the perfect line for you is Lamcome or Channel. Is there a way you can be certain? Well, this is probably a question that many women ask themselves.

How can they really and truly know that they’re using the right skin care and make-up products? If you ask me, I would say that you can tell by your complexion. How is it looking these days? Is it immaculate or could it be improved? This is something you should take a minute and ponder. Go ahead, look in the mirror and evaluate.

I can’t even begin to imagine what a company like estee lauder cosmetics pulls in each year. It’s not like Estee Lauder is their only product line. They also own Lab Series for men, Clinique and one of those drugstore brands like Mabeline or Cover Girl. I forget which one. The point is they’re rolling in the dough. Not that they don’t produce fine products, because I always hear that they do.

My wife uses estee lauder cosmetics. Well, the skin care regime anyway. She loves Fruition. It’s one of those super-infused rejuvenating creams that supposedly work wonders. In all honesty I think she just likes the way it smells. This is understandable though. The scent of a product can really draw you in. It always gets me with aftershave balms. Then again they’re not quite as pricey as estee lauder cosmetics.

It’s a good idea to just head out to the local mall if you’re searching for a new cosmetic line. Take a stroll through one of the major department stores like Macy’s or Nordstrom’s. These places always have oodles of cosmetic lines. Aside from estee lauder cosmetics, you will also spot Clarin’s, Lancome, Chanel, Shisedo, Mac, Clinique, and more.

Take a seat at the different cosmetic counters and try things out. See what line appeals to you the most. Maybe it will be estee lauder cosmetics, and then again, maybe it won’t. Either way you have nothing to worry about. There is always another cosmetic line out there. Whether you like it or not, much of finding the right one is about trial and error.

naturalacneremoval.info provides readers with the latest reviews,articles,commentaries and write-ups on all estee lauder cosmetics, rejuvenating creams, skin care related subjects.