A common way to use this shoe is when the farrier bevels the inside edge so there is no contact between the sole and the shoe. Too much contact can cause more bruising. Hawkins adds that a treatment plate can be screwed to the shoe to protect the sole. The farrier's goal is to relieve pressure on the affected area of the sole, she says. As a prevention, some veterinarians and farriers advocate that pads be worn to protect the horse against the effects of local ground trauma.
Pads bring the sole into direct concussive contact with the ground surface.
The veterinarian also might administer a tetanus booster, Johnson says. Horses as a species are very prone to tetanus. Although many horse owners believe applying a poultice will help, Johnson reports the medical effectiveness of this procedure is highly questionable. He also advises against using antibiotics unless a deep penetration has occurred. Draining a simple bruise is not suggested.