How to Manage Arthritis in Horses

The pain and discomfort caused by arthritis are a common problem in horses. The general term "arthritis" describes inflammation of the joints. Several types of arthritis afflict horses, but osteoarthritis is the primary cause of pain and lameness. When the cartilage lining of the joint erodes, joint movement causes friction, pain, and inflammation. This damage is a result of trauma, injury, age, or repetitive exercise and competition. Managing arthritic pain, enhancing joint fluid, and slowing further joint degradation improve the horse's athletic ability. Implementing more than one treatment can improve the outcome and decrease down time.

Instructions

    • 1
      Evaluate your horse for signs of arthritis.

      Evaluate your horse's condition. If he is displaying signs of pain or lameness, ask your veterinarian to perform an examination. Once arthritis is diagnosed, you can begin a treatment regimen.

    • 2
      Topical creams can be applied right to the skin covering the joint.

      Reduce inflammation and pain by applying a topical anti-inflammatory directly to the joint area. You can do this daily or prior to competition.

    • 3
      Non-steroidal drugs can be given every twelve hours.

      Administer non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which can be given orally or intravenously. These drugs offer longer pain relief and superior anti-inflammatory action. Depending on your veterinarian's recommendation, you can administer NSAIDs every twelve hours if necessary.

    • 4
      Intra-articular injections should be performed only by a veterinarian.

      Replace lost or degraded joint fluid with intra-articular (within the joint) injections. Your vet will inject hyaluronic acid directly into the damaged joint. An anti-inflammatory drug such as cortisone may be added to reduce inflammation within the joint.

    • 5
      Intramuscular and intravenous joint solutions require a prescription.

      Follow up intra-articular injections with intramuscular or intravenous injectable solutions. These solutions are made from components of joint fluid such as hyaluronate sodium or polysulfated glycosaminoglycan. Once administered, they work quickly to reduce pain and inflammation. A veterinary prescription is required.

    • 6
      Add joint supplements to your horse's feed.

      Use feed supplements to help with joint function. Many joint care supplements offer ingredients such as chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine to help restore joint integrity. These supplements come in the form of a powder, pellet, liquid, or paste and can be purchased at most feed stores. Most supplements can be mixed right in with your horse's feed or given through a syringe.

    • 7
      Reduce strenuous exercise while your horse recovers.

      Reduce strenuous activity until one or more of these treatments have been implemented and have had time to take effect. Most veterinarians will recommend three days off after an intra-articular injection. In addition, this will give your horse time to realize and enjoy the reduction in pain.

    • 8
      Keep your horse turned out to encourage joint movement.

      Keep your horse turned out. Freedom of movement keeps the joints in motion and better lubricated. Standing in a stall will cause joints to stiffen up.