■ Repetitive training without enough rest leads to degradation and injury, so vary the workload and the type of surface you work on, and allow for turnout, rest days and light hacking. This isn’t just good for your horse’s mind, but also his physical recovery.
■ Tendon rehab should include heavy and slow loading, pain monitoring, and progressive resistance (ie, build up slowly, but do build up). Gentle hill work is good, but be careful with jumping and fast work.
■ Monitor tendon health, load and recovery during training and throughout the season. Track and record data and use it to help you understand when to continue, reduce, or stop exercise.
■ Above all, don’t rest. Strengthen.
■ Dr Seth O’Neill was speaking at the Horses Inside Out Conference 2020.…