Managing Stone Bruises in Horses: Benefits of Draw It Out® Liniment Gel

Managing Stone Bruises in Horses: Benefits of Draw It Out® Liniment Gel

June 27, 2017
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Hoof Care

Managing Stone Bruises in Horses: Causes, Care & How Draw It Out® Gel Helps

Spot it early, stabilize footing, and keep care calm and show-safe.

Stone bruises are a common and painful issue—especially when footing gets hard, busy, or sloppy. Here’s how to spot them, smart DIY care, a bruised sole horse recovery time timeline, and why a sensation-free gel supports a quiet comeback.

In this article

What is a stone bruise? Signs & symptoms Immediate first-aid Bruised sole horse recovery time Preventive footing & turning tips Why Draw It Out® Gel helps Supporting products FAQ

What is a stone bruise?

A trauma to the hoof sole, often from compacted footing, rocks, or sudden impact. Unlike abscesses, bruises affect the corium directly—causing soreness that can feel worse before it gets better.

Pro move: If lameness escalates or heat/pulse persist, call your veterinarian and coordinate with your farrier.

Signs & symptoms

  • Short, abrupt steps or landing toe-first on hard ground.
  • Heat or tenderness over the sole; hoof testers may localize soreness.
  • Avoids hard surfaces or shifts weight even when the walk looks level.

Immediate first-aid at the stall

  • Cold therapy: apply cold compresses or cool soaks to reduce inflammation.
  • Bedding: keep it deep and soft to prevent compensatory soreness.
  • Back off work, improve footing, and schedule farrier/vet checks before hauling or hard schooling.

Bruised sole horse recovery time (timeline)

Typical timelines (individual horses vary)

  • Minor bruise: 5–7 days with rest and supportive care.
  • Moderate: 10–21 days; gradual return once sound on a circle and on firm footing.
  • Severe/complicated: Several weeks; requires veterinary evaluation and a tailored plan.

Week-by-week guide

  • Days 0–2: Protect and cool. Deep bedding; limit turns on hard ground. Apply a thin layer of Draw It Out® Gel to the sole/frog/heel bulbs 2–3×/day to support calm, sensation-free comfort.
  • Days 3–7: Re-check heat/pulse daily. Hand-walk on forgiving footing as comfort allows. Consider hoof boots or soft pads per farrier advice.
  • Week 2: If sound at walk and on a gentle circle, introduce light work (straight lines, good footing). Continue thin, even gel application post-work.
  • Week 3+: Progress load only if consistently sound on firm ground and after turnout. If soreness lingers or worsens, pause and call your vet/farrier.
How Draw It Out® supports the comeback: Sensation-free, stay-put gel helps maintain comfort without heat or sting, so horses can rest quietly and move more naturally as they re-test soundness. Consistent, calm care often means an earlier, safer return to light work compared with “do-nothing” approaches. Always follow your vet’s guidance.

Preventive footing & turning tips

  • Maintain a forgiving surface—especially at turns, gates, and traffic pinch-points.
  • Turn gently; avoid sharp pivots on hard ground.
  • Audit show/haul surfaces in advance and adjust schedules accordingly.

Why Draw It Out® Gel helps

The sensation-free formula supports tissue comfort without heat or sting. It stays where you apply it and helps calm the hoof after stress—so your horse can stand straighter, rest better, and recover quietly.

Supporting products

Reminder: Always follow label/SDS guidance and current association rules.


Stone bruise FAQ

How long does a stone bruise take to heal?

Minor bruises may improve in 5–7 days with rest and hoof support. Moderate bruises can take 2–3 weeks; severe cases need veterinary evaluation and possibly extended rest.

Should I shoe or pad when a horse has a bruise?

Talk with your farrier—soft pads or rim pads often help redistribute weight, but match the plan to workload and surface.

Is Draw It Out® Gel safe for daily application?

Yes—sensation-free and show-safe. Designed for careful, repeated use as comfort demands. Monitor hoof response and consult your vet with any concerns.

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This guide is informational and not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Always follow your veterinarian’s advice.

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