Application of different physiotherapy techniques in healing of the accessory ligament of the deep digital flexor tendon in the horse - a case report
Authors: Ewa Jastrzębska, Katarzyna Wolińska, Marta Mieszkowska, Aleksandra Pawłowska
Journal: Medycyna Weterynaryjna
Summary
# Editorial Summary Injuries to the accessory ligament of the deep digital flexor tendon (ALDDFT) present particular challenges in equine practice, as flexor apparatus pathology typically heals slowly and incompletely, often resulting in chronic lameness and performance loss. This case report documents the rehabilitation of an 18-year-old Polish Warmblood mare treated with a multimodal approach combining magnetotherapy, laser therapy, and shock wave therapy, with progress tracked through clinical examination, ultrasonography, and thermography. The integrated protocol successfully reduced soft tissue inflammation, restored normal tendon fibre alignment on ultrasound imaging, and facilitated tissue remodelling, achieving satisfactory functional recovery despite the mare's advanced age and the 12-week delay before treatment commenced. The findings suggest that combining complementary modalities—rather than relying on single interventions—may enhance healing outcomes in mature horses with established flexor injuries where prognosis is typically guarded. For practitioners managing similar cases, this approach warrants consideration as part of a comprehensive rehabilitation strategy, particularly when early intervention has not been possible.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Combined physical therapy modalities (magnetotherapy, laser, shock wave therapy) may be effective for ALDDFT injuries even in older horses with delayed treatment
- •Ultrasonography and thermography provide objective monitoring tools to track healing progress and inform ongoing treatment decisions
- •Age and treatment delay should not preclude pursuit of multimodal rehabilitation strategies for flexor tendon and ligament injuries
Key Findings
- •Combined magnetotherapy, laser therapy, and shock wave therapy reduced swelling and improved tendon echogenicity in an 18-year-old mare with ALDDFT injury
- •Ultrasonography and thermography effectively monitored tissue regeneration and healing progression
- •Satisfactory clinical outcomes were achieved despite advanced age and delayed treatment initiation