The rehabilitation of the superficial digital flexor tendon using a peak load restriction device.

Abstract

Tendon injuries are one of the leading causes of retirement in the equine industry. Injuries of the superficial digital flexor tendon account for 75%-93% of soft tissue injury in our equine athletes. The rehabilitation of an SDFT injury is time consuming and can have quite a limited success rate to preinjury level exercise. Early mobilisation is known to improve the tendon integrity and fiber matrix of a recovering tendon but proves difficult to maintain peak loading. An alternative method is the use of a peak load restriction device.