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General InformationFoot abscesses usually develop at an area
of separation of the horny outer layer of hoof wall from the softer underlying
layer of the hoof, often at the white line. Dirt accumulates in these cracks,
and the area soon becomes infected. Such infections can be quite advanced
before the abscess affects the sensitive part of the foot, causing pain. Hence,
pain from an abscess can develop suddenly, such as soon after shoeing or after
a hard workout. |
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Important Points in Treatment
- ____ Drainage is the primary means of treating a foot abscess.
Softening or "drawing" of the infected area and cleanliness are also
important.
____ After the abscess drains, your horse=s pain should
progressively lessen, to the point of near soundness in 3 to 4 days.
____ Most foot abscesses are routine and uncomplicated, but some
take more time to diagnose and treat. Some foot infections do not form a true
abscess. These could be related to a puncture wound, rather than separation of
hoof layers. In treating a foot abscess, One may have to pare away a large area
of sole, and time is needed for the sole to heal and toughen. The condition may
not have been a true abscess, but rather more of a bruise. If the pain
persists, we will take radiographs (x-rays) to rule out a coffin bone fracture.
Finally, some abscesses undermine the sole considerably, to the extent of
requiring multiple follow-up visits and possibly application of a hospital
plate shoe. Hospital plate shoes have a steel plate bolted over the injured
sole, protecting the sole and saving the expense of repeated application of
tape bandages.
____ We recommend the following treatment:
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Call Our Office If:
- You have any questions concerning foot abscesses.
- Your horse's pain has not lessened within 2 days.
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We should recheck your horse in/on:
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