Tendon and ligament injuries in horses – effective biological therapies

Introduction

Tendon and ligament injuries are among the most common orthopedic problems in sport horses. They are caused by training overload, sudden injuries, or inappropriate ground conditions. These injuries lead to lameness, prolonged recovery, and the risk of recurrence, which can end the animal's sporting career.

 

Symptoms of tendon and ligament damage:

 

  • sudden lameness after exercise,
  • swelling and pain in the tendon area,
  • palpable thickening at the site of injury,
  • elevated temperature in the limb area,
  • chronic lameness and decreased athletic performance.

 


Standard treatment

Classic methods include rest, cooling the limb, bandaging, physical therapy, and administering anti-inflammatory drugs. In more severe cases, surgical treatment is used. Unfortunately, traditional methods often involve a long recovery period and the risk of recurrence.

 


Modern biological therapies

 

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs)

MSCs are particularly valuable in the treatment of severe or chronic injuries. They support structural regeneration, reduce scarring, and increase the strength of the reconstructed tissue. Thanks to MSCs, the risk of injury recurrence is significantly reduced.

 👉 Check out how mesenchymal stem cells work

 

PRP – platelet-rich plasma

 PRP provides concentrated growth factors that accelerate repair processes in tendons and ligaments. When applied topically, it reduces inflammation, accelerates regeneration, and improves the quality of the regenerated tissue.

 👉Learn more about PRP

 

Terapia IL-1

 IL-1 is used in cases accompanied by chronic inflammation. It helps reduce pain, limit inflammation, and improve regeneration effects.

 👉 Learn more about IL-1 pain therapy and treatment

 

 

Step-by-step approach

 

  • Stage 1 – fresh injuries: PRP as the first line of therapy to support healing.

    Stage 2 – extensive or recurrent damage: MSC for more complete regeneration and reduction of the risk of recurrence.

    Stage 3 – chronic inflammation: IL-1 as a supplement to biological therapies.

 

 

Summary

Damage to tendons and ligaments in horses poses a serious therapeutic challenge. Standard treatment is often insufficient, and the risk of recurrence is high. The use of biological therapies—PRP, MSC, and IL-1—can shorten recovery time, improve the quality of regeneration, and extend the sporting life of horses.

 

FAQ

How long does tendon regeneration take in horses?
Can PRP be used on recreational horses, not just sport horses?
Do MSCs completely eliminate the risk of recurrence?
Is IL-1 routinely used in the treatment of tendons?
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