Understanding Tendons in Equine Athletes
Tendons are strong, fibrous tissues that connect muscles to bones, allowing horses to move and absorb shock. The superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) and the deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT) are particularly important for movement and performance. Due to the high levels of stress these tendons endure, they are prone to injuries such as strains, tears, and inflammation.
Common Tendon Injuries and Their Impact
Tendon injuries can range from mild inflammation to severe tears. All types of tendon injuries need to be correctly and carefully rehabilitated to ensure proper healing. Some of the most common tendon injuries in equine athletes include:
-
Tendonitis - inflammation of the tendon, often caused by overused or improper footing.
-
Tendon Strains and Tears - Result from excessive strain during high-impact activities. Range from microtears to catastrophic complete ruptures. These fibers are usually damaged in a localized area within the tendon, and can form a "hole" on ultrasound.
-
Bowed Tendons - often referred to as "bandage bows", a more severe form of tendonitis that commonly impacts the SDFT. The tendon fibers become enlarged and bow outward, leading to extreme swelling, heat, lameness, and a "bowed" appearance of the limb.
These injuries can sideline your horse for months, if not permanently.
Best Practices for Tendon Care
While accidents can be unavoidable, proactive care can significantly reduce the risk of tendon damage due to regular wear and tear.
-
Proper Warm-Up and Cool-Down - Before and after intense exercise, ensure your horse has adequate time to warm-up and cool-down. This helps increase circulation and flexibility, reducing the risk of strains.
-
Gradual Conditioning - Avoid sudden increases in workload. Gradually build up your horse's fitness level to strengthen muscles, tendons, and joints over time.
-
Appropriate Footing and Shoeing - Uneven or excessively deep surfaces can contribute to tendon injuries. Try to avoid poor footing, and work with a skilled farrier to ensure your horse is properly shod for their discipline.
-
Supportive Therapies - Utilizing supportive therapies, such as cold therapy compression wraps, and Tendonall Equine, can protect your horse from overuse injuries.
How Tendonall Equine Supports Tendon Health
Tendonall is scientifically formulated to support, protect, and heal soft tissues. Tendonall helps reduce inflammation, promote tissue repair, and improve overall tendon health. Whether you're looking to prevent injury, or rehabilitate, Tendonall is trusted by horse owners and veterinarians who prioritize equine well-being.
Give your horse the support they need to stay strong, sound, and competitive with Tendonall.
The Importance of Tendons in Equine Movement
Understanding Tendons in Equine Athletes
Tendons are strong, fibrous tissues that connect muscles to bones, allowing horses to move and absorb shock. The superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) and the deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT) are particularly important for movement and performance. Due to the high levels of stress these tendons endure, they are prone to injuries such as strains, tears, and inflammation.
Common Tendon Injuries and Their Impact
Tendon injuries can range from mild inflammation to severe tears. All types of tendon injuries need to be correctly and carefully rehabilitated to ensure proper healing. Some of the most common tendon injuries in equine athletes include:
These injuries can sideline your horse for months, if not permanently.
Best Practices for Tendon Care
While accidents can be unavoidable, proactive care can significantly reduce the risk of tendon damage due to regular wear and tear.
How Tendonall Equine Supports Tendon Health
Tendonall is scientifically formulated to support, protect, and heal soft tissues. Tendonall helps reduce inflammation, promote tissue repair, and improve overall tendon health. Whether you're looking to prevent injury, or rehabilitate, Tendonall is trusted by horse owners and veterinarians who prioritize equine well-being.
Give your horse the support they need to stay strong, sound, and competitive with Tendonall.