Hoof ulcers are among the most common causes of acute lameness in horses. Usually, a small foreign body, such as a stone or a toenail injury, is the trigger – but the consequences can be painful and long-lasting. In addition to the traditional treatment of trimming and relieving pressure, PRP (platelet-rich plasma) is now being discussed as a complementary therapy. But how effective is its use?
What happens when a hoof ulcer occurs?
A hoof abscess develops when bacteria penetrate the hoof capsule through a small injury or weak spot. The infection leads to a painful collection of pus, usually in the dermis. The horse often exhibits sudden and severe lameness—sometimes so severe that one might suspect a fracture. Once the pus can drain, the lameness improves rapidly. However, in more complicated cases, the wound may heal poorly or become infected again.
How can PRP help with healing?
PRP contains a high concentration of platelets and growth factors that promote tissue healing. When used to treat a hoof ulcer, PRP is applied locally after the wound has been opened and cleaned—either directly into the cleaned socket or onto a dressing placed within the hoof capsule. It supports the regeneration of healthy tissue, can inhibit inflammation, and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Benefits of PRP for hoof problems
PRP therapy is minimally invasive, well-tolerated, and based on the body's own components. PRP can be an effective complementary therapy, especially for horses prone to chronic hoof problems or those with poor wound healing. Its regenerative effect can potentially shorten the healing process and reduce the risk of complications.
Conclusion
PRP is not a standard treatment for hoof ulcers, but it is an increasingly interesting complementary therapy—especially in cases of difficult healing processes. Its natural mode of action, combined with targeted local application, makes PRP a promising component in hoof health. Early and targeted treatment can often help the horse regain pain-free gait more quickly.
