How do I know if my horse has pulled a tendon?

Look out for these signs:

  1. Lameness.
  2. Swelling or thickening of the tendon.
  3. Heat anywhere along the length of the tendons is a sure-fire warning sign.
  4. You may also find pain as you are running your hands over the tendon.
  5. In the event of a severe trauma, you may see the fetlock dropped to the ground.

How do you treat a pulled tendon in a horse?

Ice application or cold hosing two to three times daily and/or application of kaolin poultice. Bandaging to immobilise the limb. Anti-inflammatories such as Bute to aid in reduction of swelling and provide pain relief.

How long does a horse tendon injury take to heal?

Most tendon injuries require at least 3 months of restricted exercise (e.g., walking in hand or on a horse walker). Repeat tendon scans are invaluable for assessing healing before exercise levels are increased. In many horses, it is a year before they are fit to compete again.

Can a horse sprain a tendon?

A: Horses may experience an acute tendon injury, says Dr. McClure, where severe damage occurs from a one-time event, such as putting a foot wrong during a turn or on a jump landing.

What is the most commonly injured tendon in the horse?

Flexor tendon injuries are relatively common in horses. Superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) injuries are particularly common in eventers and racehorses, but can occur in any horse through field injury or over-exertion. The primary defect is a central rupture of tendon fibres resulting in bleeding and swelling.

Can a torn tendon heal on its own?

If left unattended, the tendon will not heal on its own and you will have lasting repercussions. In such situations, a surgeon will access the injured tendon, perform repairs, and close the incision. This will be followed by several weeks of rest and physical therapy so you can heal and strengthen your body.

What are 2 clinical signs of a tear in the superficial digital flexor tendon in horses?

Clinical signs of superficial digital flexor tendinitis are swelling behind the cannon bone, heat, pain upon touch, refusal to switch leads, and lameness within two to three days following the injury (LLC, HorseDVM).