Seasonal Risks, Signs, and Effective Care
Tendon injuries are never something we want to deal with as horse owners. As the seasons shift and ground conditions change, horse owners must remain vigilant about the risk of tendon injuries. The transition from dry to wet ground can significantly impact your horse’s tendon health. Wet, slippery surfaces increase the likelihood of slips and strains, especially when combined with the inherent elasticity and load-bearing demands of equine tendons.
Recognising Tendon Strain and Injury
Tendon injuries often result from overstretching or sudden, forceful movements, which are more likely on uneven or slippery ground. Common signs include:
- Heat and Swelling: Increased temperature and puffiness around the tendon area.
- Lameness: Ranging from subtle shortening of stride to pronounced limping.
- Bowing Tendons: Visible bulging, particularly in the front limbs.
- Pain on Palpation: Tenderness when the affected area is touched.
- Unwillingness to Move: Reluctance to bear weight or engage in normal activities.
If you observe these symptoms, it is crucial to consult your veterinarian promptly. Early diagnosis often involves ultrasound imaging to assess the extent of the injury and guide treatment decisions.
Immediate Care: Cold Hosing and Veterinary Intervention
The first 48 hours post-injury are critical. Implementing cold therapy can significantly reduce inflammation and swelling. Cold hosing involves directing cold water onto the affected area for 15–20 minutes, 2–3 times daily. This method is particularly effective when the injury is fresh and localised.
In addition to cold therapy, your veterinarian may recommend:
- Box Rest: Limiting movement to prevent further strain.
- Bandaging: To support the tendon and reduce swelling.
- Anti-inflammatory Medications: Such as phenylbutazone (Bute) to alleviate pain and inflammation.
- Ultrasound Monitoring: To track healing progress and adjust treatment plans accordingly.
Laser Therapy for Tendon Injury Recovery in Horses: Frequency and Benefits
Laser therapy, particularly high-intensity laser therapy (HILT), has become a cornerstone in equine rehabilitation, especially for tendon and ligament injuries. This non-invasive treatment utilises specific wavelengths of light to penetrate tissues, promoting healing at the cellular level.
Treatment Frequency
The frequency of laser therapy sessions varies depending on the severity and stage of the injury:
- Acute Phase (First 1–2 Weeks): Typically, treatments are administered daily or every other day. For instance, some protocols suggest a regimen of three consecutive days of treatment followed by two days of rest, continuing with one treatment every two days thereafter.
- Subacute to Chronic Phase: As healing progresses, the frequency may decrease to 2–3 times per week, depending on the veterinarian’s assessment.
Each session generally lasts between 3 to 10 minutes, focusing on the injured area. The cumulative effect of these treatments accelerates tissue repair and reduces inflammation.
Mechanism of Action
Laser therapy works by:
- Enhancing Cellular Metabolism: Stimulates mitochondrial activity, increasing ATP production, which fuels cellular repair processes.
- Improving Circulation: Increases blood flow to the affected area, delivering more oxygen and nutrients essential for healing.
- Reducing Inflammation and Pain: Decreases the production of pro-inflammatory mediators and enhances the release of endorphins, leading to pain relief
- Stimulating Collagen Production: Encourages the formation of collagen fibres, improving the strength and elasticity of the healing tendon.
Expected Outcomes
With consistent laser therapy, many horses show significant improvement within 2–4 weeks. Studies have indicated that most horses treated with HILT for tendon injuries experience reduced lameness and improved ultrasound findings and can return back to low level work at a faster rate.
Preventative Measures: Protecting Tendons in Changing Conditions
To minimise the risk of tendon injuries as ground conditions change:
- Monitor Ground Conditions: Avoid training on wet, slippery, or uneven surfaces.
- Use Appropriate Footing: Ensure your horse’s hooves are properly trimmed and shod for the current conditions.
- Implement Warm-Up and Cool-Down Routines: Gradually prepare muscles and tendons for activity and allow them to recover afterward.
- Maintain Regular Veterinary Check-ups: Early detection of potential issues can prevent serious injuries.
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