Tendon Injuries

Condition Overview

Tendons can be stretched, partly torn, or ruptured. The tendons of the forepaws (front and back) are strained most often.

Symptoms

The signs of tendon injury are lameness, pain on bearing weight, and painful swelling over the course of the tendon.

Rupture of the Achilles tendon causes a dropped hock.

All symptoms +

Causes

Strained tendons follow sudden wrenching or twisting injuries.

Rupture of the Achilles tendon at the hock joint can be caused by sudden and extreme flexion of the hock. This injury tends to occur in Greyhounds and sporting performance breeds. The Achilles tendon is one of the most often severed in dog fights and car accidents.

Inflammation of the tendon is called tendonitis. This injury follows strenuous field or road work and overuse of the limb.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is made by veterinary examination.

Treatment

This is the same as described in Sprains. A ruptured Achilles tendon should be surgically repaired. Surgery will be followed by a long course of rest and rehabilitation.

Prevention

There is no prevention for this condition.

Support

Please contact your veterinarian if you think your pet may have this condition.