The flexor tendons in the rear of the lower limb are some of the most vital weight-bearing structures in the equine limb. They function as ropes over pulleys, and provide a sling that supports the full weight of the horse and provides shock absorption through stretch.

It follows that wounds (lacerations) that involve the flexor tendons are some of the most devastating injuries that horses sustain. These wounds usually occur below the carpus or hock and on the back (rear or caudal) part of the limb. The flexor tendons are very vulnerable to injury because there is relatively little tissue covering them.

Damage to these structures results in severe lameness (often non weight-bearing) and can cause the fetlock to drop or collapse or cause the toe of the hoof to raise off the ground.

Diagnosis involves veterinary exploration of the wound and assessment of the vital structures. Usually veterinarians do this with gloved digital palpation of the structures involved in the wound. Ultrasound through the wound can be a helpful tool to assess the integrity of tendons and ligaments.

In most cases, repair and casting to protect the repair is required to get the best result.