Everything You Need to Know About Horse Tendon Recovery Treatment

Tendon injuries are a major concern in performance horses, often leading to setbacks or even career-ending conditions. The superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) is the most frequently affected, while injuries to the common digital extensor tendon are relatively rare. 

These injuries can happen to any horse, from casual riders to top athletes. While they’re serious, many horses can get better with the right care.

This guide will help you understand horse tendon injuries. We’ll look at what causes them, how to spot them, and ways to treat them. 

What Happens When a Horse Tears or Strains a Tendon?

Tendons are strong cords that connect muscles to bones in a horse’s leg. The main tendons we worry about are the digital flexor tendons. These run down the back of the horse’s leg and help it move and stand.

When a horse tears or strains a tendon, it’s like stretching or breaking a strong rubber band. This can happen if the horse works too hard, steps in a hole, or slips on bad ground. Sometimes, it happens slowly over time from repeated stress. 

Here’s how to tell if your horse might have a tendon injury:

1. Swelling in the leg, usually at the back
2. The leg feels warm to the touch
3. The horse limps or doesn’t want to put weight on the leg
4. Pain when you touch the injury area

It’s hard to tell a pulled tendon from a torn one just by looking. That’s why it’s best to call a vet if you think your horse has a tendon injury. The vet can do tests to see how bad the injury is. Quick action is key. The sooner you get help, the better chance your horse has of healing well.

Common terms you might hear:

• Deep flexor tendon injury in horses — This means the deep digital flexor tendon is hurt.
• Horse-pulled tendon — This usually means a less severe injury, like a strain.
• How to tell if a horse tore a tendon — Only a vet can say for sure, usually after an ultrasound.

Can a Horse Fully Recover from a Tendon Injury?

The big question on every owner’s mind is: Will my horse get better? The answer is often YES, but it’s not always simple.

Horses can recover from tendon injuries, but how well they heal depends on a few things:

1. How bad the injury is
2. Which tendon is hurt
3. How quickly treatment starts
4. The horse’s age and overall health
5. How well the recovery plan is followed

Mild strains might heal in a few months, while severe tears can take a year or more. Some horses return to their previous level of work, while others may need to slow down a bit.

Tendons heal slowly. They don’t get much blood flow, which means they take longer to repair than other body parts. Rushing the healing process can lead to re-injury.

Here are some key points about tendon injury recovery in horses:

• Tendon injury horse recovery can take anywhere from 3 to 18 months.
• Horse tendon injury recovery time varies. Your vet will give you a timeline based on your horse’s specific case.
• Superficial digital flexor tendon injury horse recovery often has a good outlook but needs careful management.

Even after the tendon heals, there’s a risk of injury again. That’s why a gradual return to work and ongoing care are crucial.

Effective Treatments for Horse Tendon Injuries

When it comes to treating horse tendon injuries, a multi-faceted approach is often necessary. The treatment plan depends on the severity and location of the injury, as well as the individual horse’s needs. 

Here’s an in-depth look at common treatments:

1. Rest and Controlled Exercise

Rest is extremely important in the initial stages of tendon healing. It allows the body to begin the repair process without additional stress. However, complete immobilisation can lead to muscle atrophy and reduced flexibility. That’s why a carefully planned exercise routine is introduced as healing progresses. This might start with hand-walking and gradually increase to trotting and eventually full work.

2. Bandaging

Proper bandaging provides support to the injured tendon and helps control swelling. Apply bandages correctly to avoid additional pressure or restriction of blood flow. Your vet can demonstrate the proper technique, or you can watch YouTube tutorials.

3. Anti-inflammatory Medications

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like phenylbutazone or flunixin meglumine may be prescribed to manage pain and reduce inflammation. However, these should be used judiciously as long-term use can have side effects.

4. Advanced Therapies

• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) — This involves injecting a concentration of the horse’s own platelets into the injured area. Platelets release growth factors that can accelerate healing.
• Stem Cell Therapy — Stem cells, often harvested from the horse’s own fat or bone marrow, are injected into the injury site to promote tissue regeneration.
• Shockwave Therapy —This non-invasive treatment uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing and increase blood flow to the injured area.

5. Compression Therapy

One of the most promising advancements in horse tendon recovery is the use of compression boots. These devices, such as the Recovery Systems Equine Air Compression Boots, offer several benefits for healing tendons:

1. Improved circulation — The intermittent compression stimulates blood flow, potentially bringing more oxygen and nutrients to the injured tendon.
2. Reduced swelling — Compression helps prevent fluid build-up, reducing oedema around the damaged tendon tissue.
3. Pain relief — Many horses with tendon injuries show signs of comfort during and after compression therapy sessions.
4. Faster tendon recovery — By optimising the healing environment around the tendon, compression boots may contribute to quicker tissue repair.
5. Easy to use — Unlike some tendon treatments that require veterinary administration, compression boots can be easily applied by owners or trainers.

The Recovery Systems Equine Air Compression Boots are at the forefront of tendon recovery technology. They offer adjustable pressure settings, ensuring your horse receives the optimal level of compression for their specific tendon injury. The boots are designed for comfort, allowing for extended wear without causing distress to your horse’s injured leg.

When incorporating compression therapy into your horse’s tendon recovery plan, always consult with your veterinarian. They can provide guidance on the appropriate use of compression boots, including frequency and duration of sessions, to best support your horse’s tendon healing process.

6. Surgical Options

In severe cases, particularly with complete tendon ruptures, surgery might be necessary. This could involve suturing the tendon or removing damaged tissue.

What is the Healing Process Like?

The healing process for horse tendon injuries is a marathon, not a sprint. Understanding the timeline can help you set realistic expectations and provide the best care for your horse.

So, how long does a pulled tendon take to heal? It varies, but here’s a general overview:

1. Acute Phase (0-2 weeks) — This is when inflammation is at its peak. Your horse needs rest, and treatments focus on reducing swelling and pain.
2. Sub-Acute Phase (2-6 weeks) — Inflammation decreases, and new tissue starts to form. Controlled exercise may begin, but it’s crucial not to overdo it.
3. Remodeling Phase (6 weeks – 6 months or more) — The new tissue gets stronger and more organised. Exercise gradually increases to help the tendon heal properly.

For deep digital flexor tendon injuries, the healing process can be particularly lengthy. These injuries often require more time due to the tendon’s location and function.

Tendon damage in horses heals slowly because tendons have poor blood supply. This means they don’t get the nutrients and oxygen needed for quick repair as easily as other tissues.

How to Prevent Tendon Injuries in Horses

While it’s impossible to completely eliminate the risk of tendon injuries, there are several steps you can take to reduce the chances of your horse suffering from one:

• Always start with a thorough warm-up before any intense exercise to prepare the tendons for work.
• Increase the intensity and duration of workouts gradually to avoid stressing the tendons.
• Ensure your horse works on appropriate surfaces, avoiding deep, uneven, or slippery ground.
• Keep your horse’s hooves well-trimmed and properly shod to prevent imbalanced feet from straining tendons.
• Provide a diet rich in essential nutrients to support tendon health.
• Allow sufficient recovery time between intense workouts or competitions.
• Schedule routine examinations with your vet to catch potential issues early.
• Maintain your horse’s overall fitness to reduce the risk of injury.
• Consider using support boots during exercise, especially for horses with a history of tendon issues.
• Pay attention to any changes in your horse’s gait or behaviour that may signal discomfort.

Conclusion

Tendon injuries in horses can be challenging, but with proper care and patience, many horses make successful recoveries. With the right approach, you can help your horse stay strong, healthy, and ready for whatever adventures await you, both in the arena and on the trail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a bowed tendon on a horse be fixed?

A bowed tendon can improve with treatment, but complete “fixing” is rare. Proper care can lead to functional recovery, allowing many horses to return to work, often at a reduced level.

Can a horse walk with a torn tendon?

Depending on severity and location, a horse may walk with a torn tendon, but often with significant lameness. Complete tears usually result in severe lameness or inability to bear weight.

How do you know if your horse has a pulled tendon?

Signs include swelling, heat in the affected area, lameness, and pain on palpation. Ultrasound examination by a veterinarian can confirm the diagnosis and assess severity.

How do you treat a flexor tendon in a horse?

Treatment typically involves rest, controlled exercise, and supportive bandaging. Advanced therapies like PRP, stem cells, or shockwave therapy may be used in some cases.

How do you treat a strained tendon on a horse?

Initial treatment includes rest and anti-inflammatory medication. As healing progresses, controlled exercise and possibly physical therapy are introduced. Severe strains may require advanced treatments.

How long does a strained tendon take to heal?

Mild strains may heal in 4-6 weeks. Moderate strains typically take 8-12 weeks. Severe strains can take 6 months or more. Recovery time varies based on severity and treatment.

How long does it take for a horse to recover from a ligament injury?

Recovery from ligament injuries typically takes 6-12 months. Minor sprains may heal faster, while severe tears can take over a year. Full recovery depends on injury severity and rehabilitation adherence.

How long does it take for a horse to recover from a superficial digital flexor tendon?

Recovery from SDFT injuries typically takes 6-12 months. Minor strains may heal faster, while severe injuries can take over a year. Proper rehabilitation is crucial for optimal recovery.

How long does it take for a torn flexor tendon to heal?

Torn flexor tendons typically require 6-12 months for healing. Severe tears may take over a year. Recovery involves long periods of rest followed by carefully controlled, gradually increasing exercise.

What are the symptoms of a deep digital flexor tendon?

Symptoms include lameness, heat and swelling in the affected area, pain on palpation, and altered hoof positioning. Severe injuries may cause the toe to lift off the ground.