Common Injuries in Racehorses and Their Recovery: Tendon Injuries

Understanding Tendon Injuries in Racehorses

Tendon injuries are one of the most common issues faced by racehorses. We have faced them at Syndicates.Racing too. These injuries often occur due to the high levels of physical stress and strain placed on the horse’s legs during training and racing.

Types of Tendon Injuries

1. Superficial Digital Flexor Tendon (SDFT) Injury: The SDFT runs along the back of the leg and is prone to strains and tears. This injury is often referred to as “bowed tendon” due to the characteristic bow shape the tendon takes when injured.

2. Deep Digital Flexor Tendon (DDFT) Injury: The DDFT is located deeper in the leg and supports the fetlock joint. Injuries to this tendon are less common but can be more serious.

Causes and Symptoms

Tendon injuries can be caused by:

• Overtraining or excessive strain
• Poor conformation leading to uneven stress distribution
• Inadequate warm-up or cool-down periods

Symptoms include swelling, heat, and pain in the affected area, as well as lameness.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis typically involves a combination of physical examination and ultrasound imaging to assess the extent of the damage.

Treatment options include:

• Rest and Rehabilitation: Initial rest is crucial, followed by a gradual return to activity. Controlled exercise helps strengthen the tendon without overloading it.
• Cold Therapy: Applying cold packs can reduce inflammation and swelling in the acute phase.
• Anti-inflammatory Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage pain and inflammation.
• Stem Cell Therapy: This innovative treatment involves injecting stem cells into the injured tendon to promote healing and regeneration.

Recovery and Prognosis

Recovery from tendon injuries can take several months to over a year, depending on the severity of the injury. With proper treatment and rehabilitation, many racehorses can return to racing. Preventative measures, such as appropriate training regimens and regular veterinary check-ups, are essential to minimise the risk of recurrence.