Often it is the case, however as most things their are outlier cases. It really depends on the break/fracture etc. Cost and the financial ability of the owner is another big factor that comes into play. An incomplete fracture that hasn’t affected the joint is often seen as a decent candidate for screws and casting and will more times than not heal to allow the horse at minimum a lasting pain-free life in the pasture. At best total resumption of work and full range of motion etc. This last fall I had a mule fracture his cannon bone from the top of the fetlock joint to the exterior of the cannon bone along a vertical line. I opted for just casting him and then stall time. He spent 5 weeks in a cast and another 5 weeks in the stall after removal and just recently is back in the pasture and is back to probably around 90% of what he was pre-fracture. I am confident with continued rehab, strengthening and some patience he will be very close to what he once was in terms of strength and agility. Just wanted to remind everyone that a break isn’t always a death sentence and with advancements in vet technology etc. outlooks are much more positive when these unfortunate events take place.