Returning your horse to work following a Tendon or Ligament injury

All too often I get asked ‘How should I go about exercising my horses that has had a tendon/ligament injury?’ so below I have create a generalised plan that could aid you in beginning to set out a return to work schedule. It should only be carried out under the guidance of a veterinary professional and progression is dependant upon how your horse copes at each stage. It is also important to recheck your horse/pony for any signs of lameness throughout the program.

I suggest that after each training session, even if just walking, ice/cold hose the area to cool down the tendon and reduce inflammation.

Month 1

Once the tendon/ligament is healed, in hand/ridden walking on even ground (hacking) for up to 45 minutes a day (increased gradually up until this point).

Month 2

Start to add ground poles and hill work to the hacking. At 6 weeks, some trotting may be added for 5-10 minutes split over both reins. The trot should be on the straight, avoiding deep corners and circles where possible.

Month 3

Trot work should start to include 20-meter circles and raised trotting poles. Some canter work can also be started and gradually increased over time.

Month 4

Horse/pony can return to jumping/dressage movements.