Also known as tendo-synovitis, peri-tendinitis, or tendinitis specifically. Ranges from simple to severe strain.

Definition: Suspensory ligament desmitis (inflammation of a ligament).

Anatomy: Superficial digital flexor (SDF) tendon or sheath or sometimes the deep digital flexor (DDF) tendon or sheath in mostly front legs.

Clinical signs: Lameness of affected leg. Heat and swelling of the above anatomy.

Causes: Overexertion, lack of conditioning. Imbalanced or inappropriate hoof care. Footing. Adams (pg 612-613) has an article about tendon extension at peak performance that is worth the read.

Treatment: Call your veterinarian. Expect some lay up time and slow careful recovery with plenty of leg wrapping. A rehab center for swimming and other complementary therapy is a great asset if you want to go that route to speed recovery and maintain fitness. I have some good contacts if you are interested.

Farriers need an accurate diagnosis of superficial or deep flexor tendon involvement.

Increasing the hoof angle is contraindicated for the more common superficial tendon but often advisable for deep flexor tendon involvement. Bringing the breakover back is also often advisable.