Horse Tendon Injuries: Welfare During Recovery and Prevention

Tendon injuries are among the most common and welfare-significant injuries in horses, particularly those in sport and racing. Long recovery times and risk of re-injury present ongoing challenges.

Key Facts

Superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) injuries are the most common tendon injury in sport horses
Recovery from severe tendon injuries typically takes 12-18 months of carefully managed rehabilitation
Re-injury rates are high — up to 80% in racehorses returning to full work
Pain and restricted movement during box rest can cause significant psychological distress in horses
Emerging treatments include stem cell therapy, PRP, and platelet-rich fibrin
Ultrasonography is essential for monitoring healing progress

Welfare Considerations

Tendon injuries cause acute pain and may become chronic sources of discomfort if not properly managed. The prolonged box rest required for healing presents a serious welfare challenge — horses are highly motivated to move and socialise, and confinement without adequate enrichment causes frustration, anxiety, and stereotypic behaviours. A welfare-centred rehabilitation plan addresses not just physical healing but psychological needs: hand-walking, visual contact with other horses, and environmental enrichment during confinement are essential.

What You Can Do

Implement gradual, progressive training programmes to reduce tendon strain in sport horses
Ensure horses on box rest have companionship, visual stimulation, and regular hand-walking
Work with your vet to create a structured rehabilitation plan with regular ultrasound monitoring
Avoid returning horses to full work before tendons are fully healed — reinjury is common
Support research into preventive measures and improved tendon treatments