Nail bind

Veterinary advice should be sought before applying any treatment or vaccine.

Nail Bind

Nail bind is a term used to describe the condition where a nail has been driven too close to the sensitive laminae in the horse's foot. In mild cases the pressure on the sensitive tissues will cause low-grade pain and lameness. In some cases a localized infection develops around the nail leading to a foot abscess and associated severe pain and lameness.

Symptoms

Lameness, either immediately or within one week following shoeing
Increased heat in foot
Hoof tester response
Increased digital pulse

Diagnosis

  • Clinical signs
  • History
  • Physical exam
  • Radiography

Support

Therapies

TherapiesDetails
Removal of the horseshoe
Stall rest. Improving drainage by slight enlargement of nail hole may be required. Daily hoof soaking (Epsom salts or povidone-iodine solution) for 20-30 minutes twice a day. Between soakings foot should be bandaged using diaper and duck tape or poulticed. Antibiotics may be required.

Prevention

Scientific Research

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