Posted by M. W. Myers, D.V.M. on September 13, 2002 at 20:48:21:
In Reply to: severe extensor tendon and hind leg injury posted by K. Singleton on September 07, 2002 at 15:56:43:
: My horse got in a fight with a barb wire fence about 4 months ago and the horse lost the fight. He tore his hind leg open to the cannon bone from the fron side of his hock all the way down to just above the pastern bone area. We had over 12 inches of exposed bone and very little flesh. (the fence got the flesh) His extensor tendon was ripped from the top origin but has granulated and re-attached somewhere in the mid section of the cannnon bone area. Every vet,farrier and horseperson that has seen this injury are shocked and amazed at this injury but even more amazed at the miraclous recovery we are making.
: I have noticed that the horse's outside hoof walls are starting to show rings of ridges (not smooth like before) just below the coronary band area. Also, the inside sole of the hoof is starting to become drier and flaky. (Reminds me of a turtle shell. Shiny, smooth but bumpy in areas and flaking) I am assuming these are some of the after effects of the injury but what do I need to do to continue to ensure good foot balance and soundness. The leg wound has healed enough for daily ground exercise and I have started a low impact exercise program to strengthen and work the tendons, ligaments and muscles. The horse does not buckle or give to the leg. He has good basic anatomy and soundness. We have not had any infections, founder or major obstacles. I am truly rehibilitating a miracle and want to do every thing I can to maintian our excellent recovery. Any informatin, guidance, or direction you can give me will be greatly appreciated.
:
A horse can actually get along quite well without an extensor tendon, so you can stop worrying about this nonproblem. The hoof is reacting to the changes in blood flow from the injury and weight bearing changes. If the horse is sound, movement is important at this time to return everything back to close to status quo. Pulsed magnetic boots (not static magnets) will enhance blood flow to the limb when properly applied.
M. W. Myers, D.V.M.