Things To Know About Equine Joint Health
Joint health should be prioritized throughout a horses career. Although conformation genetics and preexisting conditions can predispose a horse to osteoarthritis OA professional hoof trimming proper nutrition appropriate exercise and weight management promote longterm joint health and performance. It may not be possible to avoid the development of OA as a horse ages but early diagnosis and appropriate management can minimize joint injury and allow for early intervention.
2. Decreasing body weight reduces joint stress. Obesity is a significant health concern projected to affect 30 percent of horses. Excess weight causes joints to experience increased weightbearing and is a risk factor for OA. In other species obesity is related to inflammation and risk of orthopaedic disease. A loss of one pound of body weight in humans is equated to a fourpound force decrease on the knee. An 11-18 percent decrease in body weight in dogs with OA reduced lameness. Horses should be kept at a body condition score of 4-5 out of 9 to limit joint stress.
Joint injections can be administered at regular intervals but once may be enough. A single injection may be sufficient to break the inflammatory cycle and longterm management factors can help