Page 322 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse

remain permanently thickened.

VetBooks.ir Prognosis

For acute injuries that are recognized and treated appropriately, the prognosis is reasonably
good. Chronic injuries have a much less favourable outcome. With very severe strains,

adhesions may develop between the ALDDFT and the superficial digital flexor tendon. In
these cases the prognosis is poor.

BRUISED TENDONS

The flexor tendons at the back of the cannon bone are covered only by skin so they are very
vulnerable to bruising from kicks or overreaches.

Clinical signs and diagnosis

The clinical signs are similar to those for a tendon strain. There may be visible signs of
external trauma or the history may be known, but frequently the only clues will be soft tissue

swelling and tenderness. Diagnostic ultrasound is often required to differentiate oedema and
swelling around the tendon and bleeding within the tendon due to bruising, from a more

serious tendon strain.

Treatment

The treatment is similar to that described for tendon strains. Where the overlying skin is

damaged and infection is a complicating factor, the wound will need to be thoroughly
cleaned and antibiotics are administered.

Prognosis

In general, the prognosis is more favourable and the recovery period is shorter than for
strained tendons.

Prevention

Boots and bandages may provide protection, especially when lungeing or jumping. However,

overtight bandages and badly fitting boots that rub especially in wet, muddy conditions can
cause problems of their own.