How to Treat Horse Tendons With Reducine

Even the toughest equine athlete can be sidelined by a strained tendon. Most suspensory injuries are caused by overexertion, resulting in pain, stiffness, swelling, and often lameness. If the injury is serious, consult a vet. For minor pain and stiffness, a program of support therapy aided by the application of the counterirritant Reducine can help most horses regain soundness in weeks. The combination of anti-bacterial iodine and pine tar for reducing inflammation has made Reducine Absorbent a popular therapeutic tool for many trainers. Application takes only a few steps.

Things You'll Need

  • Rubber gloves
  • Small stiff brush
  • Reducine
  • Clippers
  • Cold water or ice pack
  • Hot plate (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      The injury should initially be treated with cold water or ice packs until the heat and swelling go down. In some cases this could take a week or more of hydrotherapy two or three times a day.

    • 2

      Check the injured leg to be certain that most of the heat and swelling have dissipated. Use clippers to shave an area from the coronary band to just above the knee or hock.

    • 3

      Put on rubber gloves. Open the can of Reducine. If it looks stiff and thick, place the can on a hot plate to warm and soften the paste.

    • 4

      Dip the brush into the Reducine, and paint it onto the affected part of the leg. Use only enough to dampen the skin. Rub it in well using either the brush or your glove-protected hands.

    • 5

      Walk the horse by hand several times each day. If the animal shows severe lameness, walk him for only a half hour twice each day until the lameness subsides, then gradually increase the level of exercise. Do not allow the horse to remain standing in a confined space for extended periods.

    • 6

      Repeat step 4 once a day until a scurf or blister residue forms over the area. This indicates that the blistering agent has done its job and that blood flow is increasing to the affected zone. Stop all applications of Reducine. Do not apply any additional salves or ointments.

    • 7

      Continue light daily exercise, gradually increasing duration and intensity as the horse improves. In some cases it may take months for the tendon to heal enough for the horse to return to strenuous work.