Which tendon is most often bowed?

The superficial flexor tendon is the tendon most often bowed in horses due to its anatomy and the conditions under which it operates. This tendon plays a crucial role in the biomechanics of the horse's leg, running down the back of the limb and providing support during motion. Its location and its role in flexing the fetlock and the proximal interphalangeal joints make it particularly vulnerable to injury and strain, resulting in a bowed appearance when it becomes weakened or damaged.

The condition known as "bowed tendon" typically arises from repeated stress or overextension during activities such as racing, jumping, or heavy work. The superficial flexor tendon is more prone to such injuries compared to other tendons, like the deep digital flexor or the common digital extensor, which are either less exposed to the type of strain that leads to bowing or have a different function which does not lead to the same types of injuries.

Additionally, while the suspensory ligament can also sustain injuries and contribute to lameness, it does not commonly present as "bowed" in the same visual and clinical context as the superficial flexor tendon.