Osteomyelitis of P-3

Question
Hi, my 26yr old Paint gelding has suffered with lameness since 10/06. A puncture wound at the point of the frog caused an abscess, but x-rays showed not penetration of sensitive areas.  Treated, but the abscess would recur again.  Follow up x-rays showed there could be some further penetration. He had surgery "curettage of lytic area on P-3" 9/07, with a good prognosis.  In May 08 he was lame again & he had surgery again. He is again showing soreness (Jan '09). My question is about shoes. IF he does not have any infection going on perhaps he just needs extra padding of the hoof forever(?) He worn a plate shoe for 12 weeks after each surgery so his hoof hasn't even returned to normal yet, but is there a shoe that you would recommend that might help provide cushion?
Thank you for your help.

Answer
HELLO DEE...THANK YOU FOR YOUR QUESTION...

I "FEEL' for you going through this for so long. I have a 25yr. old
that I saved 8 years ago.

Contrary to "expert" opinion...like humans; as horses age they just heal slower and as they say " Things just take awhile!!" .

I need to ask after the surgeries, has his sole remodeled?? I realize
that with padding and hospital plates the hoof capsule/wall will take time to shape and remodel back to what is "normal" for him.
Since it's been May 08' he SHOULD HAVE a decent strong sole. I have had good results using 7% strong iodine 2/3 times a week to callus
/toughen the sole and also aids in disinfecting.
YOU SHOULD NOT cover the area where the surgeries were done. "Nature" will reheal, unless the horse is kept too wet or allowed to constantly soak and soften the sole and hoof capsule.

Constant padding will eventually "weaken" the sole which nature
intended to be strong and tough. I assume that the problem is in a front hoof. I'd definitely keep him Half-shod forever at his age for
comfort and protection. I hope you have access to a good farrier.
Seeing the condition of the sole and general hoof I could be more
precise, but try  the iodine treatment for awhile and let me know how it goes. I can get an update from you and possibly help you from there.
One last thing...if NOT already...feed a hoof supplement with your daily grain to "strengthen the hoof from within".

The Best to You...
Joepaul Meyers,C.J.F.