Tendon injuries in horses
Tendon injuries in horses are one of the most common reasons for long rehabilitation periods.
These equine injuries require structured and carefully monitored management, as recovery is often complex and demands time and progressive loading.
What happens inside the tendon?
Tendons are strong connective tissues that transfer force from muscle to bone.
When a horse jumps, works in collection, trains at speed or repeats the same movement over time, the tendon fibers absorb significant mechanical load. Repeated strain can create microscopic damage within the fibers. If the load exceeds what the tissue can tolerate, the fibers partially or completely rupture.
How to detect a tendon injury
A mild tendon injury can be difficult to detect in the early stage. Subtle swelling or transient heat along the tendon may be the only initial signs. In more severe cases, symptoms become clearer and easier to identify.
Common symptoms of a tendon injury:
- Swelling along the tendon
- Increased heat in the affected area
- Sensitivity or pain on palpation
- Thickening of the tendon
- Stiffness, especially at the start of movement
- Shortened stride
- Visible lameness
Even small changes in heat, swelling or tendon shape should be taken seriously. Early evaluation improves the chances of a well managed and successful recovery.
The three phases of tendon healing
When a tendon is injured, healing does not happen overnight. It progresses through three overlapping phases. Understanding this process explains why structured rehabilitation is essential.
Immediately after injury, the body focuses on protection. Blood clotting and inflammation stabilize the area and limit further damage.
Heat, swelling and pain are common during this stage. Inflammation is necessary for healing, as the body clears damaged tissue and prepares for repair.
The body begins rebuilding the injured area. It produces early collagen that fills the gap and provides temporary support.
This new tissue is weaker and less organized than a healthy tendon. Controlled and progressive loading during this phase helps guide proper fiber alignment and improves long term strength.
Over time, the tendon continues to rebuild. Early collagen is gradually replaced by stronger fibers that align according to mechanical load.
This phase determines long term durability. Careful progression of work helps the fibers organize correctly and reduces the risk of re injury.
Successful tendon rehabilitation depends on controlled loading and careful progression through each phase.
Supporting tendon repair in horses
LED Treatment significantly stimulates important cellular processes involved in tendon repair. Scientific studies demonstrate measurable effects throughout all three healing phases, supporting a more efficient and structured recovery.
Our LED Treatment Systems use exclusively red and infrared light within the optical window (no blue light). These wavelengths penetrate deeper into tissue and have a positive impact on:
- Fibroblast activity, the cells that produce new tendon tissue
- Collagen production, essential for rebuilding tensile strength
- Blood vessel formation, supporting local circulation
- Regulation of inflammatory signaling
- Immune cell behavior, supporting the transition from inflammation to repair
LED Treatment does not replace veterinary care. It is an effective complement that improves the biological conditions for successful tendon recovery.
Targeted LED Treatment Systems for tendon injuries in horses
Frequently asked questions
Tendon healing follows three phases: inflammation, tissue building and remodeling. The severity of the injury and the structure of the rehabilitation plan determine how long recovery takes.
LED Treatment stimulates key cellular processes involved in tendon repair. When you use it consistently as part of a structured rehabilitation program, it supports stronger and more organized tissue rebuilding.
If you would like guidance on how to integrate the system into your horse’s tendon rehabilitation plan, we are happy to assist alongside your veterinarian’s recommendations.
Blue light primarily affects the superficial surface of the skin. It does not reach the depth where tendons and ligaments are located.
Our systems use exclusively red and infrared wavelengths within the optical window. These wavelengths penetrate further into biological tissue to support cellular energy production, collagen synthesis and circulation.
Yes. LED Treatment is non invasive and designed for consistent use. Many professionals integrate it into daily care, performance management and rehabilitation programs.
No system can guarantee prevention. Tendon injuries occur when mechanical load exceeds the tissue’s capacity.
However, maintaining tissue quality, supporting circulation and regulating inflammatory responses are important factors in long term durability.
LED Treatment stimulates cellular processes involved in collagen turnover and tissue maintenance. When integrated into regular training routines, it can support tissue resilience and help manage accumulated strain over time.
We build our LED Treatment Systems around biological relevance and real stable conditions.
Each system uses four carefully selected red and infrared wavelengths within the optical window. Every second row emits infrared light to ensure deeper tissue reach. No blue light. No unnecessary wavelengths. Only wavelengths selected for its documented relevance in tissue repair.
But technology alone is not enough.
Our systems are engineered for daily use in demanding stable environments. They are built to withstand dust, moisture and impact. If dropped in dirty stable water or stepped on by a horse, they are designed to continue functioning.
This combination of targeted wavelengths and durable construction sets our systems apart. You get advanced light technology in a format built for real world equine use.
Start by renting. Use the system in your own stable and evaluate the response. If you decide to purchase, rental payments can be credited toward your system.
Low risk. Professional level technology.