Racehorses are elite athletes. They push their bodies to the limit through rigorous training sessions and high-speed competitions. This intense physical demand—especially on their musculoskeletal and respiratory systems—means that injuries are an unfortunate but often common reality. Recognizing and addressing racehorse injuries as soon as possible protects their health, performance and longevity.
The most common injuries in racehorses vary in severity. Most are subtle in nature, such as mild stress injuries, but some horses can experience catastrophic breakdowns.
Bone fractures can either result from a sudden traumatic incident or develop more slowly as stress fractures from repetitive strain.
EIPH is the presence of blood in the lungs post-exercise. It is one of the most common injuries in racehorses, with around 90% showing some signs of this condition after racing.
This condition involves muscle cramping and stiffness during or after exercise, typically occurring when a racehorse is pushed beyond its current fitness level.
The hoof is the foundation of a racehorse's performance, but repetitive and high-impact activities can easily compromise hoof health and cause injuries over time.
Racehorse injuries are not usually caused by one factor alone. They typically result from a mix of genetics, environment and training management. By understanding these risk contributors, trainers and owners can take proactive steps to reduce the likelihood of injuries.
Young racehorses are more susceptible to developmental injuries. Their bones and soft tissues—including tendons and ligaments—are still maturing, making them vulnerable to stress-related damage if pushed too hard too soon. On the other hand, older horses face a different set of challenges. With years of cumulative wear and tear, they are more prone to degenerative conditions such as joint deterioration.
Stallions, mares and geldings respond differently to physical stress due to hormonal influences and variations in muscle composition. For example, a recent study found that geldings are three times more likely to experience superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) problems when compared to stallions or mares. Moreover, the higher testosterone levels in stallions results in higher muscle mass, which can also make them more susceptible to some injuries. Mares also may be more vulnerable to certain injuries due to hormone changes throughout their reproductive cycle, especially during their estrous cycle.
A horse’s build affects how weight and force are distributed across its limbs. Certain genetic predispositions in this distribution can lead to uneven stress, increasing the likelihood of racehorse injuries such as tendon strains or bone fractures. Paying close attention to a horse’s build and bloodline can offer clues into potential injury risks and help guide preventive care.
Sprint races, with their explosive starts and fast pace, can lead to muscle strains and soft tissue injuries. In contrast, longer-distance races test endurance and are more likely to place sustained stress on joints and bones—increasing the risk of stress fractures and overuse injuries.
Top-level races attract the fastest, strongest competitors, but they also pose greater physical challenges. These high-class events typically involve higher speeds, tighter turns and more aggressive race tactics, all of which increase the likelihood of racehorse injuries. Horses competing at elite levels are more likely to encounter sudden bursts of acceleration or jostling with other horses, raising the stakes both in terms of performance and injury risk. Enhanced pre-race monitoring and conservative recovery planning can help horses cope with these rigors.
The more horses in a race, the greater the chance of accidents. Packed fields can lead to bumping, collisions, interference and congestion in tight turns—scenarios that increase the risk of musculoskeletal injuries. Crowded starts, particularly in shorter races, often see horses clipping heels or getting boxed in, which can cause awkward movements or falls. Awareness of these dynamics can guide race selection and warm-up routines that help keep horses safe.
Research shows that synthetic tracks are associated with a lower incidence of fatal racehorse injuries compared to traditional dirt tracks. Turf surfaces tend to be gentler on joints due to their natural cushioning, but they can become slick and hazardous in wet weather. Some horses perform better on specific surfaces and switching between track types without proper adaptation can lead to strain. If making a change, take the time to acclimate your horses to the new surface over time.
Irregular grading, uneven surfaces or poor moisture control can increase the likelihood of soft tissue injuries or fractures. Maintenance teams play a vital role in minimizing these risks by ensuring tracks are consistently level, well-drained and appropriately compacted. Owners and trainers should advocate for high standards in track preparation to support racehorse safety.
Extreme heat, humidity, rain and cold can have a significant impact on injury potential. High temperatures can lead to dehydration and muscle fatigue. Cold weather can stiffen joints and muscles. Wet or muddy tracks may cause slipping, while overly dry conditions can create harder, concussive surfaces. All of these factors can make horses more vulnerable to certain injuries. Keeping a close watch on weather forecasts and adjusting training or racing plans accordingly can help prevent racehorse injuries triggered by environmental extremes.
Keeping your racehorse healthy is about more than treating injuries—it’s about preventing them before they happen. A proactive, whole-horse approach includes providing compassionate support to your racehorse through every stage of training, competition and recovery.
Consider these health strategies to reduce the risk of racehorse injuries:
Physical health isn’t the only consideration for your racehorse—mental and emotional well-being also play a critical role in their overall performance. Horses are sensitive, social animals that benefit from mental stimulation, time in pasture and opportunities for socialization. A supportive environment can help reduce your horse’s stress and keep them mentally sharp. To further build trust and confidence, consider using positive reinforcement techniques during training sessions.
With early detection, informed care and the right support team, your equine athlete can enjoy a long, successful racing career. Mixlab is here to be part of that journey—every stride of the way. As a trusted equine pharmacy, we understand the rigorous demands placed on performance horses and we're here to help.
We can fill prescription medications for common injuries in racehorses, plus we offer supplements and recovery aids. All new orders ship with convenient, two-day delivery straight to your doorstep, the barn or even the racetrack, so you can maintain your horse’s health regimen or quickly treat injuries. Simply submit your prescription request online or contact our team.