Tendon injuries are a common problem of the working horse, especially those coming off the racetrack. Tendons are the connective tissue portion of muscles that connect them to the bone. They are composed of dense fibers of collagen and protein and have incredibly high tensile strength. Their primary function is to transmit the force of the muscle through the limb to the bone, and in horses, they are very important as support structures.
Tendonitis is inflammation of the tendon and the tendon muscle attachments. In horses, we usually describe tendonitis as it pertains to the flexor tendons and often use the terms tendon “strain” and “bowed tendon.” Tendonitis occurs when the tendon is overstressed or overworked and is a common occurrence in racehorses and other athletic horses. The superficial digital flexor tendons on the front limbs are the most commonly injured because of the incredible load they bear. Lesions can range from a simple strain with limited tendon damage to severe strain with complete rupture of the tendon.
Recognition of early tendon damage is crucial to preventing a large-scale injury or rupture. Horses with tendonitis present with lower limb swelling, distension and heat with lameness, usually on the back of the leg behind the cannon bone between the knee and fetlock. The lameness may vary from nothing to non-weight bearing. Pressure along the injured tendon induces some discomfort. Tendonitis should be considered serious and is worth veterinary attention for a proper diagnosis and treatment regimen. Your veterinarian may recommend radiographs or an ultrasound evaluation to better define how much tendon is damaged, help with treatment, and give you a prognosis on the future career of the horse.
Treatment of tendonitis is primarily directed at reducing continued damage to the tendon and helping to relieve pain and inflammation while the tendon attempts to heal itself. One of the problems with severe tendon strains is that they can heal with scar tissue, which is not as elastic as normal tendon and therefore prone to re-injury. Minimizing inflammation and scar tissue can best be accomplished with cold water therapy or ice packs several times a day for 48 hours. Bandaging the leg can also help by reducing swelling through pressure. There are also many topical poultices available to help “draw out” swelling from the leg. The use of systemic non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like phenylbutazone or Banamine is beneficial as well. Most importantly, a period of rest followed by a controlled exercise program is needed. Through the use of ultrasound and clinical signs, your veterinarian can help you determine how much time off your horse needs and how quickly to start working them again. Tendons may require six months to a year to heal completely. Controlled exercise is crucial to proper healing because it can help reduce scar tissue formation between the tendons and tendon sheaths. Your veterinarian might also prescribe special shoeing to reduce the strain on the affected leg.
There are some new therapies including ultrasound and shockwave therapy, which have had some success with decreasing the healing time needed in cases of tendonitis. There is also a new product available called ACell Vet which is injected into the affected area and has been effective in reducing healing time and improving tissue regeneration.
Preventing tendon injuries is almost impossible, however exercising your horse on firm but not hard surfaces with good footing is ideal. Keeping your horse in good shape and avoiding overexertion is also important. Leg wraps are helpful when extra support is needed.
Reference:
McIlwraith, C. Wayne, “Diseases of Joints, Tendons, Ligaments, and Related Structures”, Adams’ Lameness in Horses, 5th Ed. 2002
Copyright © 2008 The NW Horse Source, LLC
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