Sprained tendon - lameness (also in veterinary)

[saskia295]

My friend's horse has recently gone lame out of the blue. The vet has diagnosed a sprained tendon and stated he'll need 6 months box rest. The vet can't even say if he will get better.

Has anyone else had any experience of strained tendons? Is it all doom and gloom? Also, has anyone got any good ideas as to boredom breakers whilst the horse is on box rest?

I'd really appreciate any help.

 

[1928sky]

6 months total box rest? I would of thought it would have been say 1-2months box rest and then a controlled exercise program from the box. Which tendon is it? My horse had a mild sprain and wasn't lame to the DDFT (less common than superficial) and had 3 weeks box rest and then 3 months gradual build up of work- she was very fit before she could be turned out again. Has it been scanned to assess the damage? Mine was back jumping as good as ever within 6 months but have to make sure she is really fit for the work she is doing. So it is not all doom and gloom depends on severity and location really, and then the management and treatment programme

 

[luane1]

One of the horses in our yard is on box rest for this. He now has a stable mirror and a hexagon food treat and everyone talks to him as much as possible, he is 3 months into it now and he does get out now onto the walker.

 

[saskia295]

Thank you both.

SJ - I will ask my friend the questions you've posed and will get back to you.

COLT - good plan, I think she has got a food treat ball and is also looking into getting a stable mirror.

Hopefully the vet has got it wrong then!!