Why are my horse's pasterns cracked and painful after turnout?
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Overview
Cracked, painful pasterns after turnout are often linked to mud fever, especially if the ground has been wet, muddy or cold. It can also be caused by simple skin irritation, friction, or small cuts that become sore after being out in the field. You can't tell the exact cause from the cracks alone, but a few careful checks can help you decide what to do next.
Things To Check
1. Check whether the soreness appears after turnout and settles when your horse comes in, or whether it stays there all the time.
2. Look closely for scabs, crusting, broken skin, hair loss, redness, swelling, discharge or any heat around the pasterns.
3. Feel whether the skin is wet, greasy, sticky or very dry and cracked, since different skin conditions can look similar at first.
4. Check the mud and wetness level in the turnout area, especially around gateways, troughs and field edges.
5. Look at whether one leg is affected or whether both hind legs, or all four legs, are involved.
6. Check for signs your horse is uncomfortable when the area is touched, brushed or cleaned.
7. Think about any recent changes in turnout, clipping, feathering, bandaging, washing or grooming routines.
Common Causes
Mud fever is one of the most common reasons for cracked, painful pasterns after turnout, especially in wet or muddy conditions. The skin can become sore, scabby and cracked, and it may be more obvious after the legs have been exposed to moisture.
Skin irritation from mud, wet bedding, friction or repeated washing can also leave the pasterns sore and fragile.
Small cuts, rubs or damaged skin can become more noticeable after turnout, particularly if the ground is wet or the horse is moving through thick mud.
Less commonly, other skin problems or an underlying sensitivity can contribute to repeated soreness, which is why it helps to keep an eye on whether the issue keeps returning.
What To Do
Bring your horse in and gently inspect the legs in good light. If the skin is dirty, clean it carefully and keep handling as calm and minimal as possible.
Dry the area well after any washing, because damp skin can stay irritated for longer. If you do wash the legs, use a gentle routine and avoid scrubbing hard.
Try to reduce time in the mud where you can, and look at turnout management such as field choice, gateways and the wettest patches of ground.
Monitor the area over the next day or two. If the skin is getting more cracked, sore or swollen, or your horse is becoming more uncomfortable, it's sensible to ask your vet for advice.
When To Contact A Vet
Contact your vet if the pasterns are very painful, the horse is lame, the swelling is spreading, or the skin is weeping, hot or getting worse despite gentle care. It's also worth getting advice if the problem keeps coming back or isn't improving over a few days.
Products That May Help
If turnout is leaving your horse's lower legs muddy or difficult to keep clean, this collection may help support a more consistent daily care routine.
Related Questions
How can I tell mud fever from simple mud staining?
Should I wash my horse's legs every day in wet weather?
Can mud fever come back after turnout even if it seemed better?
Atlas is here to support owners with practical, easy-to-understand guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your animal's health, symptoms worsen, or something doesn't feel right, contact your vet.