What is a bowed tendon?

• A. Injury to the suspensory apparatus
• B. Fracture of the radius
• C. Inflammation of the digital cushion
• D. Tearing of the fibers of the superficial flexor tendon with swelling, pain, and tenderness

Answer: (D)

Bowed tendon is a tear in the fibers of the superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) with swelling, pain, and tenderness along the back of the leg, making the tendon appear bowed under the skin. This injury specifically involves the SDFT and is not about the suspensory apparatus, a fracture of the radius, or inflammation of the digital cushion, which are different conditions with distinct causes and signs. Clinically you’d see heat, swelling, and lameness in the affected limb, and management centers on rest followed by a controlled rehabilitation program to allow proper tendon healing.