30/04/2026
This horse was referred to me by a trusted local vet. He’s in the older age bracket and suffered a tear in his deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT) in the long pastern area of his front right leg. This injury put stress on his fetlock, leading to degenerative suspensory ligament desmitis (DSLD).
Previously under another practice, he had a graduated pad, but after careful discussion, vet advised an application of a pattern bar shoe with a frog plate to reduce compression of caudal area of the hoof capsule. A set toe to support toe and allow a level floor surface area. This will reduce the pressure on the tendon, as the constant strain was causing scar tissue to form.
With this support, we’re aiming to give the tendon the best chance to heal and fully recover. I’ll be keeping a close eye on his progress!
