If a vet says a horse has 2 lesions in a ligament, should the horse not be allowed to walk?

Question

The horse in question is a jumper, and has had this injury for about 2 weeks. A vet has seen him, but it was unclear as to whether the horse was allowed out of the stall for some handwalking, or if he was strictly confined to the stall.

Answer 1

Does your horse have the bandages for tendon injury? It is best to keep him in his stall for a few weeks at least as per vet orders.

Initially, stall rest with handwalking is required. Your horse should not have access to unrestricted exercise such as pasture or arena turnout during the first 4-6 months. The injured tendon or ligament cannot withstand sudden heavy loading

Your initial goal is to reduce inflammation. Support bandages, twice daily cold water hosing or ice will help to reduce heat and swelling. Anti-inflammatories should be given under the direction of your veterinarian. Your horse should be confined to a stall until ultrasound confirms the presence of an injury.

Most tendon and ligament injuries require 9-12 months for optimal healing. Key to the success of returning your horse to work is regular ultrasound exams to check the progress of healing throughout his or her rehabilitation. Injured tendons/ligaments should demonstrate an improved size, echogenicity and fiber pattern at each recheck exam,

Answer 2

Ask your vet. Unless the vet says no. I would take the horse out and handwalk every day.