# Clinical Diagnosis, Treatment, and Outcome Analysis of a Horse with Proximal Sesamoid Bone Fracture Complicated by Flexor Tendinitis

## TL;DR

A 5-year-old horse with a complex injury involving a bone fracture and tendonitis was successfully treated using a combination of drugs and ultrasound therapy.

## Contribution

Demonstrates the effectiveness of LIPUS-assisted therapy for concurrent PSBF and flexor tendinitis in horses.

## Key findings

- LIPUS therapy improved microcirculation and accelerated tissue healing in the horse's injured areas.
- The combination of NSAIDs and LIPUS stabilized clinical parameters and supported recovery.
- This case provides practical guidance for managing complex musculoskeletal injuries in sport horses.

## Abstract

With the increasing popularity of equestrian sports, proximal sesamoid bone fracture (PSBF) and flexor tendinitis in the forelimbs of sport horses have become increasingly common, often leading to musculoskeletal injuries. A 5-year-old horse developed swelling in the left fetlock joint and metacarpal region after exercise and was diagnosed with concurrent PSBF and flexor tendinitis. To promote recovery, the veterinarian administered non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in combination with low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) therapy. This treatment improved local microcirculation at the affected sites, accelerated tissue healing, and led to stable recovery of clinical parameters. This case highlights the effectiveness of LIPUS-assisted therapy in managing complex injuries of this kind, providing practical guidance for veterinarians and contributing to the health and sustainable development of equestrian sports.

With the growing popularity of equestrian sports, the incidence of athletic injuries in horses has also risen. Among these injuries, proximal sesamoid bone fracture (PSBF) and flexor tendinitis are particularly common in the forelimbs of sport horses and represent major causes of musculoskeletal impairment. A 5-year-old horse presented with obvious symptoms such as swelling at the left fetlock joint and metacarpal region after exercise. Through lameness assessment, diagnostic imaging, and hematological testing, the horse was diagnosed with PSBF complicated by flexor tendinitis. The affected horse was treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs combined with low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) therapy. After treatment, local microcirculation at the fracture and flexor tendon sites was improved, tissue healing was accelerated, and clinical indicators were stabilized. This case report demonstrates the potential of LIPUS-assisted therapy in promoting the recovery of horses with PSBF and concurrent flexor tendinitis, providing a valuable clinical reference for the management of complex musculoskeletal injuries in veterinary practice.