Bowed tendons vary in severity, but complete healing takes a long time. Clinical signs may resolve within days if you rest the horse and give anti-inflammatory drugs (i.e. Bute). Generally, the swelling returns with premature work or stress. It can take 8 to 11 months for the tendon to repair itself completely.

Can a horse come back from a bowed tendon?

It's a diagnosis no horse owner wants to hear. Bowed tendons are a serious cause of horse lameness and can be career ending for equine athletes. Although most often a condition of racehorses, it can occur in other horses as well.

How bad is a bowed tendon?

Bowed tendons in horses can be a debilitating disorder to horses if not diagnosed and treated properly. Bowed tendon is a common term used by horse owners, trainers, and professionals to describe a tendon which has suffered a sort of injury. When it is not treated properly, the fibers can become torn.