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Equine Ailments - A to Z
Bruised Sole and Frog - the sole and frog are exposed to damage, and bruising is a common cause of lameness. Evidence of bruising is seen as a flush of colour to the sole that is more visible on a white hoofed horse, hoof-testers will also reveal sensitivity. If the damage is limited to the sensitive sole, early resolution may be expected, but if the damage has involved the coffin bone it may take months or even years to return to normal. At the onset of injury, box rest the horse when possible and/or protect the bruised foot, take steps to relieve the pain by the aid of footbaths or poultices. When the immediate pain has gone the horse may benefit from a specialist shoe, that protects the sole, being fitted, or other corrective shoeing might be needed as a future preventative measure, (seek the help of a good farrier) light exercise is useful in restoring the circulation within the bruised tissues. See also Corns. |
