Tendon injuries in horses require long rest periods and careful rehabilitation to heal, with welfare considerations throughout the extended recovery process.
Extended box rest for tendon healing creates a welfare paradox - the physical injury requires rest, but prolonged confinement causes psychological distress through social isolation, restricted movement, and boredom. Horses on box rest must receive enrichment, social contact through stable windows, careful daily hand walking within healing parameters, and regular monitoring for stereotypy development. Balancing physical healing with psychological welfare requires active management throughout recovery.