Joint Problems in Horses: A Common Topic in the Horse World
Joint problems in horses are one of the most frequently discussed topics in the equestrian world. To treat these issues, there are a variety of therapies and supplements available.
Choosing from the available options can be difficult for both you and your horse. Therefore, here are some helpful facts.
With 205 bones, horses have a skeletal structure similar to that of humans, containing a variety of bones. Additionally, three different types of joints are present. Some of these joints are highly complex in structure and movement. One example of a very complex joint is the carpus (knee).
There are three types of joints in your horse:
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Synovial Joints
- These are the most common type of joints.
- They are movable and most prone to injury.
- The ends of the bones are covered with a cartilage layer.
- This cartilage layer, along with synovial fluid (the “joint lubricant”), ensures smooth movement.
- Example: Carpal joint (knee) and elbow.
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Cartilage Joints
- These joints are either slightly movable or immovable, depending on the bone.
- Held together by fibrocartilage (collagen fibers) and hyaline cartilage.
- Example: Between the vertebrae of your horse’s spine.
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Fibrous Joints
- These are immovable joints.
- Held together by fibrous tissue that hardens into bone.
- Example: The joints of the horse’s skeleton.
Key Ingredients Proven to Support Your Horse’s Health:
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- Glucosamine alleviates acute joint pain and has been shown to slow bone breakdown by increasing hyaluronic acid content.
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Chondroitin Sulfate
- Chondroitin sulfate is a natural "water magnet" in the joints and complements glucosamine. The right amounts of chondroitin sulfate allow the joint to withstand constant compression and shock. It also inhibits "cartilage-destroying" enzymes found in damaged joints.
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- MSM is a source of bioavailable sulfur, essential for the synthesis of connective tissue. MSM works best in combination with glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate to maintain the cartilage matrix.
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Hyaluronic Acid
- Hyaluronic acid is naturally present in your horse’s joints.
- Synovitis and osteoarthritic cartilage reduce the quantity and quality of this hyaluronic acid. The primary role of hyaluronic acid is to increase the viscosity of synovial fluid to reduce friction between the joint surfaces.
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- Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric, known for its strong antioxidant properties. It supports the digestive, muscular, and immune systems. Pure curcumin is easier for your horse to absorb than untreated turmeric. As an antioxidant, curcumin is very effective in reducing cell damage caused by oxygen radicals (ROS) and free radicals like stress, toxins, and chemicals.
In Conclusion
All horses are fundamentally prone to joint problems, regardless of their breed or size. Horses that are worked intensively are particularly vulnerable. Supplements are one way to support joint health.
Below is a selection of supplements that are relevant for maintaining joint health:
- Supplementary support with Curcumin and Hyaluronic Acid
KuraSyn 360x is a supplement for horses that contains highly bioavailable curcumin (the active ingredient in turmeric) combined with hyaluronic acid. It contains a fast-acting curcumin extract, complexed with a naturally occurring oligosaccharide, offering significantly better absorption compared to untreated turmeric.
A fast-acting mobility supplement
Stride HA is a fast-acting liquid supplement designed to nourish healthy cartilage and joints. It works with the added benefit of hyaluronic acid and includes all four key components for joint health.
- For optimal skeletal development and adaptation
Calphormin is unique in that it contains a balanced combination of macro minerals, trace elements, amino acids, and the added benefit of sodium zeolite, a bioavailable silicon-containing compound. The foundation for future success can be laid before birth.
