Tendon injuries are one of the most common, and frustrating injuries that happen to performance horses. They can take months to heal, and even then, a complete return to pre-injury competition is not promised. But here's the good news: the earlier you intervene, the better the outcome.
Knowing what to do in the first 24 to 72 hours after noticing a possible injury can make the difference between minimal time off and long-term layup.
Here's your step-by-step guide for what to do at the first sign of an injury.
1. Know what to look for
Not all tendon injuries are obvious. In fact, they often begin subtly. Here are early warning signs to take seriously:
- Mild heat or puffiness in the lower limb (abnormal "stocking up")
- New and/or painful windpuffs
- A "tight" or thickened feeling to the tendon
- Uneven, short, or slightly off steps
- Reluctance to move forward
- Refusal to pick up a specific lead
- Uncharacteristic missing of lead changes
- Resting one limb significantly more than another
2. Stop work immediately
If you even suspect a tendon issue (even something mild) stop all work immediately. Avoid riding, lunging, or turnout until the issue has been properly assessed. Continuing to work through "just a little heat" or stiffness can turn a minor fiber disruption into a major tear.
3. Apply cold therapy
Tendons are highly sensitive to inflammation and controlling it quickly is key. Within the first 24 hours:
- Apply cold therapy (ice boots, cold hose, etc.) for 15-20 minutes, 2-3 times per day
- Use standing wrapsÂ
- Poultice the limb to draw out inflammation
- Do not apply topical liniments or heat, focus only on cooling and reducing inflammation
4. Monitor closely for changes
Check the affected limb at least twice daily for heat or increased swelling, pain or flinching on palpation, worsening lameness, or changes in digital pulse or hoof temperature. Compare to the opposite limb for subtle differences.
5. Call your vet
If symptoms persist beyond 24-48 hours, or if you notice increasing swelling, lameness, or obvious discomfort, contact your veterinarian for an exam. An ultrasound may be required to find the cause of the problem, and is an accurate way to assess tendon fiber disruption.
6. Start internal support early
Even before a confirmed diagnosis, supporting soft tissue health from the inside can make a significant difference in healing. That's where Tendonall comes in.
Tendonall is a veterinarian formulated supplement designed to:
- Support collagen strength and fiber repair
- Reduce inflammation with antioxidant support
- Aid in tissue resilience during rest and recovery
- Promote tendon elasticity and reduce risk of long-term injury
The sooner it's introduce to your horse's recovery plan, the more it can help protect and rebuild soft tissue integrity.
7. Plan for a structured recovery
Once your vet confirms a diagnosis, stick to a structured rehab plan. This often includes:
- Controlled hand-walking
- Gradual reintroduction of movement
- Regular assessments via palpation and ultrasound
- Ongoing soft tissue support through rest, nutrition, and supplementation
Soft tissue injuries don't heal overnight, but catching them early can prevent months of downtime. At the first sign of heat, swelling, or stride changes, take action. And remember: tendon care isn't just about what you do outside, it's also about what you support from within.
What to Do at the First Sign of a Tendon Injury
Tendon injuries are one of the most common, and frustrating injuries that happen to performance horses. They can take months to heal, and even then, a complete return to pre-injury competition is not promised. But here's the good news: the earlier you intervene, the better the outcome.
Knowing what to do in the first 24 to 72 hours after noticing a possible injury can make the difference between minimal time off and long-term layup.
Here's your step-by-step guide for what to do at the first sign of an injury.
1. Know what to look for
Not all tendon injuries are obvious. In fact, they often begin subtly. Here are early warning signs to take seriously:
2. Stop work immediately
If you even suspect a tendon issue (even something mild) stop all work immediately. Avoid riding, lunging, or turnout until the issue has been properly assessed. Continuing to work through "just a little heat" or stiffness can turn a minor fiber disruption into a major tear.
3. Apply cold therapy
Tendons are highly sensitive to inflammation and controlling it quickly is key. Within the first 24 hours:
4. Monitor closely for changes
Check the affected limb at least twice daily for heat or increased swelling, pain or flinching on palpation, worsening lameness, or changes in digital pulse or hoof temperature. Compare to the opposite limb for subtle differences.
5. Call your vet
If symptoms persist beyond 24-48 hours, or if you notice increasing swelling, lameness, or obvious discomfort, contact your veterinarian for an exam. An ultrasound may be required to find the cause of the problem, and is an accurate way to assess tendon fiber disruption.
6. Start internal support early
Even before a confirmed diagnosis, supporting soft tissue health from the inside can make a significant difference in healing. That's where Tendonall comes in.
Tendonall is a veterinarian formulated supplement designed to:
The sooner it's introduce to your horse's recovery plan, the more it can help protect and rebuild soft tissue integrity.
7. Plan for a structured recovery
Once your vet confirms a diagnosis, stick to a structured rehab plan. This often includes:
Soft tissue injuries don't heal overnight, but catching them early can prevent months of downtime. At the first sign of heat, swelling, or stride changes, take action. And remember: tendon care isn't just about what you do outside, it's also about what you support from within.