joints

Joint pain in horses is a widespread problem that can significantly impair the mobility and quality of life of our four-legged friends. The causes of such pain are diverse and range from natural wear and tear of the joints to acute injuries.

✘ Natural wear and tear

As horses age, their joints undergo natural wear and tear, which can be exacerbated by regular training or competition. As the cartilage in the joints thins, its ability to act as a shock absorber diminishes, leading to increased friction between the bones. This friction can further wear away the articular cartilage, causing inflammation and ultimately leading to osteoarthritis. Pain and stiffness are the direct result, as the natural gliding ability of the joints is impaired and mobility decreases.

✘ Injuries and overuse

Acute injuries and overuse are common causes of joint problems in horses. Activities such as jumping and rapid changes of direction, or running on uneven surfaces, can increase the risk of sprains, strains, and other injuries. Such events place direct stress on the joints, promoting inflammation and damage to the surrounding tissue. In some cases, this damage can lead to long-term impairment of joint function, with the affected areas often becoming painful and less mobile.

✘ Inflammatory diseases

Inflammatory diseases such as arthritis pose a significant challenge to the joint health of horses. Causes of this inflammation range from bacterial infections to autoimmune reactions to the consequences of injury. These conditions typically cause pain, lead to visible swelling, and significantly limit the mobility of the affected joints. In the long term, they can lead to progressive deterioration of joint function, requiring specific management and treatment approaches.

✘ Malpositions and genetic predisposition

Limb misalignments and certain predispositions can play a role in the development of joint problems in horses. These structural abnormalities in the joint structure lead to uneven loading and stress on the joints, which can accelerate the natural wear and tear process. Over time, this can lead to an increased susceptibility to joint diseases. Early detection and appropriate management strategies, such as those provided by a farrier, are crucial to minimize the progression of such conditions and maintain the horse's well-being.

Adequate nutrient supply and closing nutrient gaps can be important for supporting horses with joint problems.

There are several components that can play a role in the horse's well-being and enjoyment of movement.

• 
  Glucosamine: An amino sugar and natural building block of cartilage. Glucosamine is found in cartilage tissue and is important for tissue formation and repair. It is also required for the production of glycosaminoglycans. Glycosaminoglycans are long chains of sugar building blocks that are essential for the structure and fluid retention of articular cartilage.
  
  


• Chondroitin sulfate: Is a complex carbohydrate (polysaccharide), meaning a multiple sugar. Chondroitin sulfate plays an important role in cartilage because it binds water and can thus contribute to the elasticity and shock absorption of cartilage. It is an ingredient in many horse feed supplements aimed at supporting joint health.
  
  
• 
  Hyaluronic acid: Another polysaccharide that occurs naturally in synovial fluid and is responsible for its viscous properties. This viscosity means that hyaluronic acid has a lubricating effect. Due to its ability to bind large amounts of water, hyaluronic acid can also help keep joints well hydrated and synovial fluid at an optimal consistency.
  
  


• Omega-3 fatty acids: Can be obtained from fish oil or vegetable oils such as flaxseed oil. These polyunsaturated fatty acids are widely known for their anti-inflammatory properties and also contribute to the maintenance of cell membranes.
  
  


• MSM (methylsulfonylmethane): A sulfur compound that occurs naturally in many foods and is involved in the formation of collagen and keratin in the body. It supports connective tissue.
  
  
• 
  Antioxidants (vitamin E, selenium): Can protect cells from oxidative stress. Vitamin E is obtained from vegetable oils, while selenium is an essential trace element found in nuts, meat, and seafood.
  
  


• Green-lipped mussel: The green-lipped mussel is a natural source of glycosaminoglycans, which act similarly to glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate. This mussel species, which is primarily found in New Zealand waters, also contains omega-3 fatty acids.

Preventing joint diseases in horses requires a comprehensive understanding of the animal's health needs.

A combination of a balanced diet, regular and appropriate exercise, and early detection and treatment of the first signs of joint problems can play a crucial role.

1. 
   Balanced diet: A diet rich in essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals can have a direct impact on the horse's health, including its joints. Ingredients containing natural anti-inflammatories and building blocks for joint development, such as omega-3 fatty acids and glycosaminoglycans, can be important.
   
   


2. Regular exercise: Constant, adapted exercise not only helps strengthen the joints and surrounding muscles, but also promotes the production of synovial fluid, which is essential for joint lubrication.
   
   


3. Weight management: Maintaining an optimal weight is crucial to protecting joints from excessive stress. Excess weight increases pressure on joints, which can increase the risk of joint disease.
   
   
4. 
   Regular veterinary examinations: Regular checkups allow for early detection and treatment of signs of joint problems. Early diagnosis can significantly improve the prognosis for horses with joint problems.
   
   


5. Adapting training: The training routine should be tailored to the horse's age, fitness level, and any health limitations. Overly intense or unsuitable exercises can place unnecessary strain on the joints.

The health of horses' joints is a crucial factor for their well-being and performance.

It is important to look for warning signs such as lameness or changes in posture early on and to conduct regular veterinary examinations in order to detect and treat joint problems in a timely manner.

A balanced diet and, if necessary, the inclusion of quality supplementary feed to provide nutritional support for the joints can also make a valuable contribution.

We at Pferdegold hope that these insights into joint problems can help you understand the importance of joint health in horses and give you the opportunity to take effective measures to support your horse.