Regardless of how many times I have treated an abscess, I do two things every single time: (1) wonder if the leg is injured or if there is soft tissue damage because of the swelling, and (2) forget the most reasonable consensus on the best way to wrap/soak/etc. it. 

My guy was suddenly 4/5 lame (three-legged) after a ride (trail ride--only walking). Swelling started immediately and extended up the cannon. Farrier came next day, pulled shoe and was able to pinpoint location of abscess with hoof testers. Coincidentally, he said my horse was a jerk 3 weeks ago when he applied that shoe, which was very out of characater. Normally he's half sleeping during farrier work. He tried to dig it out, but wasn't comfortable digging any more than he did. I wrapped it with epsom paste.

Next day, not as lame, swelling still present. Kept wrapping. Switched to Animanlintex.

Next day, not as lame, swelling still present. Found bulging point at coronary band near the location farrier identified. Has not blown yet, but I can press on that bulge and feel it coming. Horse also responds when I press on that point, though he's walking nearly sound now.

QUESTION-since it seems it is right about to burst at the coronary band and I'm too late for a blow out on the solar surface, is there a point in applying the Animalintex boot to the bottom surface any more? Or should I just soak (epsom and betadine) so the hoof daily so the coronary band is wet and warm to encourage it to finish pushing through up there? Then do a dry dressing to bottom of hoof. 

Thoughts? All that moisture on bottom of hoof just may not be actually doing anything....anything positive, that is.

Im in the same boat with one of my broodmares.  I think this freeze/thaw cycle is to blame.  

Here we have the mud/dry cycle! LOL Hope your girlie gets to feeling better.