Strong tendons in horses: prevention and care

Last updated: March 3, 2026

Strong Tendons for an Uninterrupted Season

Keys to safely resuming training and competitions, detecting signs of injury, and choosing the right products for tendon and ligament care throughout the season.

The intensity of the rain lessens, outdoor classes return, and the care horses need changes. We are no longer as concerned about hoof moisture or cold, but rather getting back into the rhythm of training and competitions after holidays, festivities, and winter breaks.

Riding frequently again, reuniting with equestrian friends weekly, and attending school competitions are all part of the new rhythm of the year. That's why today we provide a simple guide to caring for our horses' tendons and ligaments, which also need to re-adapt to the routine.

Tendons and ligaments are fundamental to the horse's musculoskeletal system. They support and stabilize the limbs during movement. But they are also delicate areas: injuries can be serious and require time and patience. As responsible students and owners, it is key to know how to detect signs and, above all, prevent them.

Signs of Injury in a Horse

Lameness and Changes in Gait

A horse with a tendon or ligament injury may show lameness. The severity will depend on the extent of the injury. It is also common to notice alterations in rhythm: uneven walk, trot, or canter, shorter strides, or lack of fluidity.

Swelling

Inflammation around the affected area is a very common sign. It can be localized or more diffuse, depending on the severity and the exact point of damage.

Heat and Pain

To check for discomfort, palpate the cannon bone area thoroughly, running your hand along the tendons down to the fetlock. If you notice differences between one limb and another, a lump in the tendon area, higher than usual temperature, and, when carefully pressing, the horse shows discomfort or the area throbs, it is a clear sign of a possible injury.

Prevention of Tendon and Ligament Injuries

Proper Warm-up and Cool-down

In any class or when riding on your own, always start at a walk for the horse to warm up, and continue with a quiet trot before increasing intensity.

At the end, reverse the process: gradually decrease the pace until you are back at a walk. This gradual warm-up and cool-down prepares tendons and ligaments for work and reduces the risk of injury.

Regular Exercise

The horse needs a weekly work routine that strengthens tendons and ligaments. Riding infrequently and very sporadically can lead to overloads when more is suddenly demanded of them. Consistency makes them more resistant to injuries. Furthermore, gradually increasing the intensity and duration of exercise allows their body to adapt correctly.

Balanced Nutrition

A complete diet, with essential proteins, vitamins, and minerals, is key to maintaining good musculoskeletal health.

Cross-training

Varying exercises prevents repetitive stress on the same tendons and ligaments, and promotes better overall strength and flexibility.

Hoof Care

Regular trimming and shoeing help maintain proper limb alignment. Poor hoof balance creates greater pressure on the legs and the rest of the body.

Cooling Down the Limbs

Various studies have shown that removing boots immediately after work and applying cold water, ice, or cold gels helps lower tendon temperature and reduce the risk of injury.

Sources (if you want to delve deeper)

• MSD Veterinary Manual: Tendinitis in horses (initial cold treatment)
• Review (Animals, 2024): musculoskeletal injuries in horses (includes cryotherapy)

Recommended Products for Tendon Care

Boots

Boots and bandages are essential to prevent bumps, cuts, and scrapes on the horse's legs, preventing injuries and lameness. In dressage, the primary goal is support for tendons and ligaments during precise and repetitive movements, while in jumping, protection against strong impacts is prioritized, so rigid or highly absorbent boots are recommended.

For school or low-performance riding: We recommend HKM, BR, or QHP boots, as they are perfect for everyday use in school, for jumping up to 0.90 cm, or for riding in the countryside. They protect the horse and will last you more than one season if properly cared for.

Boots or dressage bandages: On our website, you will find options from top brands such as Maximilian, HKM, and Equestrian Stockholm, for both bandages and boots.

Horses with a high level of training: At this level, protection against impacts and good ventilation to prevent heat accumulation are usually prioritized. In our store, you will find boots from brands like Stubben with technical materials and anatomical fit (choose according to discipline and the horse's sensitivity).

Shipping Boots

Used to protect horses' limbs against bumps, scrapes, cuts, and to prevent fatigue that can occur inside the truck or trailer during transport. We recommend the Horseware line, which you can find on the website or in-store.

Cold Gels or Clay

ICETIGHT: As a first option, we wholeheartedly recommend ICETIGHT, a gel that provides a cold effect for up to 24 hours thanks to its formula with natural clays (kaolin and bentonite), glycerin, aloe vera, and minerals, offering refreshing, relaxing, moisturizing, and exfoliating properties. It does not stain or irritate the skin, is easily removed in the shower, and promotes natural recovery after physical exertion, both in training and competition.

Leovet Cold Pack: Another good option is the Leovet Cold Pack invigorating tendon gel, with arnica essence and rosemary oil, which acts before and after exercise. It works in two phases: after application, the action is refreshing and provides lasting well-being. And in a second phase, it transmits a pleasant sensation of warmth to reactivate the muscles. A very effective gel with great results. It should be avoided for at least two days before a national competition, as it can test positive.

In competition: always check your federation's anti-doping/medication control regulations. According to Leovet's official table, Cold Pack is listed as “not compliant” with ADMR and recommends a waiting period of 48 hours. If you compete, allow at least that margin (or whatever your regulations state) and, if in doubt, consult your veterinarian.

Anti-doping regulations (RFHE) · Official Leovet Table (ADMR / 48h)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I know if a leg is “hotter” than normal?

By comparing left hand vs right (or left hind vs right hind) in the cannon bone, tendon, and fetlock area. Clear differences in temperature or reaction to palpation are warning signs.

What are the most typical signs of tendon or ligament injury?

Lameness, changes in gait, localized or diffuse swelling, heat, and pain when gently pressing.

What is most important when returning to work after a break?

Gradual warm-up/cool-down, weekly consistency, and progressive increase in intensity and duration.

Do dressage and jumping require the same type of boot?

No. Dressage requires more support for repetitive movements; jumping prioritizes impact protection, which is why more rigid or highly absorbent boots are usually recommended.

What should I do immediately after finishing work?

Remove boots immediately and cool the limb (cold water, ice, or cold gels) to help lower tendon temperature.

When are shipping boots used?

During transport in a truck or trailer to protect against bumps, scrapes, and fatigue associated with the journey.