The Implications Of Superficial Digital Flexor Tendonitis In The National Hunt Racehorse

Every time the horses hoof comes into contact with the ground

, the tendon is required to stretch. At speed or over jumps this is increased up to 8cm, (Nankervis 2002). The tenocytes within the extra cellular matrix run parallel to one another. The ability to aid cell realignment will aid the functional capabilities of the tendon after injury.

Tendon elasticity and its ability to function as an energy efficient spring, is vital for optimum performance in the National Hunt racehorse. Tendonitis can be caused by a trauma or by the repetitive overloading, for example a galloping horse, of the flexor tendons in the caudal aspect of the distal limb. Inflammation can be acute or chronic, both resulting in the horse not being sound for exercise. Signs of tendonitis include swelling, pain, and lameness. The ability to offer immediate first aid can influence the prognosis for future performance, as tendonitis is a potentially serious career compromising disease, (Palmer et al; 1994) first aid should be offered immediately to enhance the rate and quality of repair (www.merckvetmanual.com). The horse should be removed from work to prevent any additional, potentially damaging, overloading of the limb. Healing rates for tendon injuries will vary dependant on severity.

A survey carried out by Hertsch et al claimed that 78% of all horses treated returned to work within 4 - 6 months. This trial did not record lesion size or severity. The need for this continual rehabilitation of tendons is crucial for the horse and their ability to return to racing. Tendons require rest to remodel but exercise in order to retain their elastic qualities.

Despite treatment, tendon repair is prolonged in horses and the composition, structure and function of the mature repair tissue may never equal that of an uninjured tendon, (Heinninger; 1994). The potential for re-injury is much greater once a tendon injury has been sustained, (Heinninger; 1994) which can, if the management and approach to future performance is not sympathetic to this, cause major compromise to the future career of the National Hunt racehorse.

by: Tammy Patterson

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