Tendon injury rehab (ideas)

[Norelle]

My horse partially tore the Accessory Ligament of the Deep Digital Flexor Tendon about a month and a half ago. Vet called, did an ultrasound, and he was then sent to our local rehabilitation centre for a 4 week shockwave and cold laser therapy. The vet said he's gonna be back in full work in about 9-12 months. Right now he's on box rest, daily hand walking, and in about a month Im supposed to sit on him and walk him under the saddle for another few months.

My question is - is there anything I can do to "keep" him in a good shape? I know my hands are tied pretty well due to his movement restrictions, bud maybe some of you will have some creative ideas.

 

[bonny]

Keeping him in a box is not keeping him in good shape.

 

[Exasperated]

Keeping him in a box is not keeping him in good shape.

That’s not terribly helpful!
OP might ask the vet to recommend a physiotherapist /bodyworker, and relevant exercises which the recovering horse could safely do with the OP - whilst still largely confined. Most horses thoroughly enjoy a good groom and regular massage, which OP could also do. Good luck!

 

[Norelle]

Keeping him in a box is not keeping him in good shape.

Well I can’t exactly have him running around in a muddy field when trying to heal a tore tendon, can I. I am all for keeping him out as much as possible, but this isn’t an option now unfortunately. Especially with this autumn weather.

 

[Norelle]

That’s not terribly helpful!
OP might ask the vet to recommend a physiotherapist /bodyworker, and relevant exercises which the recovering horse could safely do with the OP - whilst still largely confined. Most horses thoroughly enjoy a good groom and regular massage, which OP could also do. Good luck!

Thanks for a relevant response. I’ll ask my physiotherapist about the possible exercises. He gets his proper grooms daily haha, as I feel we both benefit from it - he enjoys the feel of it and I love it as a time spent together.

 

[MidChristmasCrisis]

Carrot stretches, the moves which lift the back ( fingers pressed into underside of belly), fascia massage…there are others which I do and I don’t know the name and it’s a long description to explain.