Arthritis is a common problem in horses that can cause significant pain and lameness. But fortunately, there are many treatment options available. The best treatment choice for your horse depends on the severity of the arthritis and the horse’s individual needs.
In this article, we discuss the most common treatments for horse arthritis, including PEMF therapy, massage, supplements, and more, and explain how they work to promote comfort and wellness.
We also answer some frequently asked questions about horse arthritis and treatments.
THE ARTHRITIC HORSE
Arthritis is a general term used to describe inflammation of the joints. It is a pervasive problem in horses, especially as they age. It’s even expected among many senior performance horses due to the strenuous demands placed on their bodies.
However, just because it’s common doesn’t mean it’s not painful or shouldn’t be treated. Arthritis can cause significant pain and lameness, affecting a horse’s everyday life and making it difficult for them to perform at their best.
Potential causes of arthritis include:
- Joint injuries
- Infection
- Immune-mediated disease
- Degenerative Joint Disease (osteoarthritis)
As you can see, there are several possible causes of arthritis. But the most common cause for equines is Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD). DJD is even more likely than trauma to lead to long-term joint inflammation and mobility issues in many horses.
WHAT IS DEGENERATIVE JOINT DISEASE?
DJD is a progressive condition that affects the cartilage in the joints, causing it to wear down. It’s also called osteoarthritis. As the cartilage breaks down, the bones begin to rub against each other, causing chronic pain and inflammation.
Signs of DJD include weight loss, tenderness, swelling, joint pain and stiffness, and lameness that improves with gentle exercise. As the disease progresses, the horse may experience pain even at rest.
That said, the pain and inflammation associated with this degenerative disease typically don’t appear until the cartilage has already been significantly damaged. This is why DJD is often referred to as a “silent disease,” at least in its early stages.
On the other hand, acute arthritis often rears its head immediately, causing discomfort straight away.
