INFLAMMATION OF THE FLEXOR TENDONS OF THE DIGIT.--The large tendons posterior to the foot and the suspensory ligament that separates them from the cannon bone frequently become inflamed. Sometimes complete rupture of one or more of these structures occurs. The lighter breeds of horses are the most frequent sufferers. Because of the greater strain thrown on the tendons of the forefeet, inflammation of these tendons is far more common than it is in the hindfoot. Diseased conditions of the hind tendons are usually due to other causes than strain. The following _predisposing_ and _accidental causes_ should be considered: Weak flexor tendons and heavy bodies predispose animals to inflammation of the tendons and suspensory ligament; quality, not size, is the factor to consider when judging the strength of a tendon; long, slender pasterns increase the strain on these structures, and this mechanical strain is further increased by low heels and long toes; the character of the work and the condition of the road that the animal travels over are important factors to consider; trotting and running horses more often suffer from injuries to tendons and ligaments than draft horses; travelling at a high rate of speed over an uneven road, slipping and catching the foot in a rut or car track, are common causes; bruises and wounds may result in the tendons becoming inflamed; inflammation of the tendinous sheaths and the tendons as well sometimes occurs in influenza. _Lameness_ is a prominent _symptom._ The pastern is held in a more upright position than normal. When the animal is standing, the foot is rested on the toe, and it may take advantage of any uneven place on which to rest the heel. In severe strains the local symptoms are quite prominent. The tendons may be hot and swollen. Pressure may cause the animal pain. In chronic tendinitis the tendon may be thickened and rough or knotty. Pain is not a prominent symptom in this class of cases. Shortening of the inflamed tendon may occur, causing the animal to knuckle over. Rupture of one or more of the tendons and the suspensory ligament can be recognized by the abnormal extension of the pastern. If the ruptured tendon heals, it always results in a thickening at the point of the rupture that gives the tendons a bowed appearance. This is termed bowed-tendon. The lameness resulting from an inflammation of tendons resembles that resulting from strains and injuries to the fetlock joint, especially in the region of the sesamoid bones.