It has been my observation that one of the most challenging aspects of equine health is the horses ability to stay sound. The term means that the animal is not lame, can be exercised or used for work or events with out discomfort associated with sore joints, tendons or muscles. Generally the equine anatomy experiences breakdowns associated with the network of tendons and muscle acting sinergistically around a delicate collection of evolutionised toes. Recently published studies report that horses begin to suffer some degree of tendon deterioration beginning around age three. The soft digital flexor tendon is at its best when it reaches maturity at age two.
Cumulative damage occurs and the tendon loses elasticity.
Stress begins to excede its elastic limit. Total failure with rupture can occur. However, repair can occur and after about six months of disorganized scarring, new tendon fibers begin to form. The pattern is like the pleats of an accordian that expand and contract with pressure. It is the loss of the pattern that is seen with increased tnedon stiffness that comes with age.