Skip to content
The Tendon And Ligament Recovery Roadmap
The Smartload™ Protocol
A Modern, Technology-Driven Approach to Equine Rehabilitation
Welcome to your horse’s rehabilitation journey.
Healing a tendon takes time, but you are not in this alone. Instead of the traditional, unpredictable methods of prolonged stall rest and hand walking, we utilize a modern Controlled Loading Program.
The Core Philosophy
Tendons are like dense, elastic springs. Resting makes them weaker and rigid.
Instead of the traditional, unpredictable method of prolonged stall rest and hand walking, we use a modern Controlled Loading Program.
To heal correctly, a tendon requires careful, controlled movement to rebuild its strength and elasticity safely in every stage of the rehabilitation process.
How It Works
Built Around Our Three Pillars
Pillar 1: Precision Diagnostics (UTC Scans)
+Standard ultrasound scans show an injury, but UTC (Ultrasound Tissue Characterization) shows us the actual quality of the healing tissue.
How it works:
We build a 3D, color-coded map of the tendon fibers. Green means healthy, blue is healing or scar tissue, and red/black indicates damage.
Your Benefit:
We never have to guess. The scan tells us exactly when your horse's tendon is strong enough to handle more exercise, preventing any premature progression.
Pillar 2: Safe Movement (TendonPro DSS)
+Since we cannot tell a horse to "take it easy," we need to protect them while they move.
How it works:
Your horse will wear the Dynamic Support System (DSS) boot during exercise. It acts as an external artificial tendon, preventing the fetlock from over-stretching and allowing for controlled forces through the tendon and ligament.
Your Benefit:
Your horse can safely perform their prescribed walking, trotting, and canter exercises without the risk of overloading or a spook causing re-injury.
As the tendon continues to heal, we will safely adjust the boot's support settings.
Pillar 3: Daily Management (The Rehab App)
+Rehabilitation is a team effort. The mobile app keeps us connected daily.
How it works:
Your daily exercise minutes and specific DSS boot settings will be delivered directly to your phone.
Your Benefit:
You will know exactly what needs to be done each day.
Plus, you can upload videos for our AI gait analysis to detect microscopic changes in movement, and message our team directly with any concerns.
The Golden Rules For Owners
Rule 1:
Movement Is Medicine
Stick strictly to the prescribed daily exercise routine. Skipping days or slowing down the program will slow down the overall healing process.
Rule 2:
Never Adjust The DSS Yourself
The DSS boot settings are prescribed based on clinically validated, customized protocols and on scan results. Changing them prematurely risks suboptimal healing and an increased re-injury risk.
Rule 3:
Consistency is Key
Tendons heal slowly but steadily in our protocols. Maintaining consistency with the app, the boot, and the scans is the safest and fastest way back to full athletic performance.
