Companion Animals

Horse Tendon Injury Rehabilitation Welfare

Tendon injuries are common and career-ending in sport horses. Evidence-based rehabilitation reduces recurrence and maintains long-term welfare.

Key Facts

Superficial digital flexor tendon injuries affect up to 43% of racehorses
Healing takes 6-12 months with high recurrence risk
Controlled exercise is preferable to complete box rest during rehabilitation
Stem cell and PRP therapies show promise in improving tendon healing quality
Ultrasound monitoring guides return to exercise timing

Welfare Considerations

Horses with tendon injuries experience pain during the acute phase and frustration during prolonged rehabilitation. Inappropriate return to exercise before healing is complete causes recurrence and worsens prognosis. Evidence-based rehabilitation programmes that use controlled exercise, appropriate monitoring, and biological therapies improve both welfare and long-term soundness.

What You Can Do

Follow veterinary rehabilitation protocols precisely for horses with tendon injuries
Use ultrasound monitoring to guide return to exercise timing
Discuss stem cell or PRP therapy with a specialist vet for significant tendon injuries