## Overview Browband pressure injuries are skin and soft-tissue lesions caused by a poorly fitted or overly tight browband. Continuous pressure can produce hair loss, white hairs, skin thickening, or open sores across the forehead. The browband sits over a relatively thin soft-tissue layer, so even moderate tension can compromise circulation. ## Causes Incorrect browband length or width, hard or narrow materials, and failure to check fit after the bridle stretches or the horse’s head shape changes are the usual causes. Secondary swelling from other issues can suddenly make a previously acceptable browband too tight. ## Diagnosis Visual inspection shows lesions or white hairs exactly where the browband rests. Comparison with the bridle off and assessment of browband tension confirm the source. ## Treatment Remove or loosen the browband immediately, keep the area clean, and allow the skin to heal. Most superficial lesions resolve within one to two weeks. Deeper sores may need topical care under veterinary guidance. Replace the browband with a correctly sized, padded version. ## Recovery and Prognosis Prognosis is excellent once pressure is eliminated. White hairs may remain permanently. ## Prevention Choose a browband that sits flat without digging in, recheck fit regularly, and use sheepskin or gel padding if needed.
hair loss or white hairs across the forehead; skin thickening or sores under the browband; sensitivity when the bridle is fitted
## Overview Browband pressure injuries are skin and soft-tissue lesions caused by a poorly fitted or overly tight browband. Continuous pressure can produce hair loss, white hairs, skin thickening, or open sores across the forehead. The browband sits over a relatively thin soft-tissue layer, so even moderate tension can compromise circulation. ## Causes Incorrect browband length or width, hard or narrow materials, and failure to check fit after the bridle stretches or the horse’s head shape changes are the usual causes. Secondary swelling from other issues can suddenly make a previously acceptable browband too tight. ## Diagnosis Visual inspection shows lesions or white hairs exactly where the browband rests. Comparison with the bridle off and assessment of browband tension confirm the source. ## Treatment Remove or loosen the browband immediately, keep the area clean, and allow the skin to heal. Most superficial lesions resolve within one to two weeks. Deeper sores may need topical care under veterinary guidance. Replace the browband with a correctly sized, padded version. ## Recovery and Prognosis Prognosis is excellent once pressure is eliminated. White hairs may remain permanently. ## Prevention Choose a browband that sits flat without digging in, recheck fit regularly, and use sheepskin or gel padding if needed.
hair loss or white hairs across the forehead; skin thickening or sores under the browband; sensitivity when the bridle is fitted