Tendon injuries are career-ending and welfare-significant in performance horses. Prevention through appropriate training and rehabilitation through evidence-based protocols reduces suffering.
Tendon injuries cause significant acute pain followed by prolonged rehabilitation that is itself stressful through extended confinement and restricted movement. Prevention through appropriate training loads, working on consistent surfaces, and adequate recovery between sessions is the most welfare-positive approach. When injuries occur, pain management is essential during the acute phase, followed by carefully graduated rehabilitation guided by ultrasound assessment. Premature return to work before adequate healing is a common cause of re-injury and prolonged welfare compromise. Horses that have suffered multiple tendon injuries or severe injuries may reach a point where prognosis for pain-free work is poor, requiring honest end-of-career decisions.