Not sure where to start when it comes to joint supplementation for your horse? Our guide contains all you need to know to help support your horse’s joints and mobility.
Every horse owner knows that looking after their horse’s joints is important for a multitude for reasons. However, it can hard to know where to start so here is helpful this guide to help horse owners with joint supplementation.
What is a Joint and How do They Work ?
Quite simply, a joint is the point where two or more bones meet. Each one is made up of a number of different parts that work together to allow the horse to move and bend. In horses, there are three types of joints: synovial joints, cartilaginous joints and fibrous joints. There are eighteen synovial joints in a horse’s body, including the knee, hock etc, meaning it is the most moveable joint and thus the most susceptible to injury. Within the synovial joint, where the two bones meet, the ends of each bone are covered in lubricated cartilage – this enables frictionless movement and shock absorption. In the joint capsule, there is an inner lining called synovial membrane which secretes synovial fluid for further lubrication to prevent friction.
When and Why Use a Joint Supplement?
In the normal daily life of a horse, joint cartilage is continually being broken down and replacement cartilage is manufactured by the body in a naturally balanced way. However, various factors can upset this balance and cause inflammation to the joint structures. Horses’ joints are built to withstand the weight of the horse’s own body, however when additional weight is added (such a rider) considerable strain can be put on the joints. This strain can upset the natural balance and affect the whole joint/cartilage process. Further joint balance disruption can be caused by:
- Increased training
- Trauma
- Competition
- Ground conditions
- Old age
- Diet
- Body condition
- Fitness level/muscle tone
- Seasonal restrictions (e.g. joint stiffness in winter owing to restricted turnout/limited exercise)
Therefore, actively managing your horse’s joints is essential to enable ease of mobility, minimise daily wear and tear as well as limit potential problems in the future. It is advised to take a proactive approach to joint health will ensure your horse remains mobile, healthy and able to perform at their best.
What Ingredients are Important in a Joint Supplement?
Joint supplements have been developed to provide targeted nutrition that supports healthy, functioning joints and easy mobility. The following ingredients should be present in joint supplements:
- Glucosamine – an amino acid that assists in the manufacture of cartilage
- Chondroitin Sulphate – a molecule that assists in lubrication and shock absorption of the joints
- Methyl Sulfonyl Methane (MSM) – a naturally occurring sulphur compound which helps soothe knocks and improve joint mobility
- Hyaluronic Acid (HA) – the principal constituent of Synovial Fluid for joint lubrication
- Vitamin C – an antioxidant that helps with cartilage formation
When choosing a joint supplement, take note of ingredients as well as formulation. Research the product and examine how it will fit in with your horse’s feeding regime. Reach out to experts such as vets or equine nutritionists for advice or information before purchasing a product.
Arthri Aid Joint Mobility Supplement
Arthri Aid Equine Joint Mobility Supplement has been formulated to aid the lubrication and help to promote regeneration of shock absorbing tissues of your horse’s joints. It contains all the above ingredients in a proven, powerful and potent formulation. Arthri Aid Equine Joint Mobility Supplement is available in two presentations:
- Liquid – palatable and fast acting
- Powder – economic and highly effective
To conclude, equine joint health should not be overlooked to ensure mobility, performance and comfort for your horse. For more information or advice on joint supplementation, please contact us on 051 304010 or here.
