Truth Behind Equine Lameness

Mystery lameness is a horse person’s worst nightmare. Interestingly enough, though, most lameness cases might not be so mysterious. Studies indicate that osteoarthritis is the culprit for some 60% of lameness presented in horses.

“Arthritis in horses is a chronic cycle of progressively worsening degeneration of joint cartilage, loss of synovial fluid, pain and inflammation,” Tony Hawkins, doctor of veterinary medicine and Valley Vet Supply consulting veterinarian, said.

Let’s review common questions from horse owners regarding the condition.

What is equine arthritis?

Also referred to as equine degenerative joint disease, equine arthritis results in degeneration of the joints, pain, inflammation, reduced flexibility and range of motion. The condition often affects a horse’s synovial and cartilaginous components of joints from hips to hocks, stifles, knees and fetlocks.

“The condition is common in horses and most often affects the stifle, hock or fetlock,” Hawkins said. “Unfortunately, there is no cure for arthritis, but the damage to the joint can be slowed by regular light exercise, weight management and injections or oral supplements to promote joint cartilage health and lubrication.”

What are common signs?

Any joint significantly used on a horse increases its likelihood of developing arthritis. Watch for these common signs, such as lameness or limping, warm or painful, swollen joints, reluctance or difficulty to move and stiffness in the joints.

To help address the underrecognized signs of pain in horses, co-authoring doctors Catherine Torcivia and Sue McDonnell, within the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, published “Equine Discomfort Ethogram.” The report outlines 73 equine discomfort behaviors and grouped them into eight categories: posture and weight-bearing; limb and body movements; head, neck, mouth and lip movements; attention to area; ear and tail movements; overall demeanor; altered eating or drinking and vocalizations/audible sounds.

Horse owners are encouraged to review their published work for detailed illustrations, written descriptions and videos to understand whether your horse is in pain, which could result from arthritis.

How is equine arthritis diagnosed?

Regularly check your horse daily to see if one leg appears larger than the other, if the back is sore or if there is any fluid in the hocks. It’s important to always share new observations with your veterinarian.

Your veterinarian will likely conduct a standard lameness evaluation if joint issues are suspected. They may also use various diagnostic tools to determine if your horse has arthritis, including radiographs, fluoroscopy, nuclear scintigraphy, CT scan, MRI, nerve and joint blocks, ultrasound and thermography.

Can you ride a horse with arthritis?

Horses with arthritis can still have a riding career, but it’s important to consult your veterinarian to determine your horse's level of arthritis and whether treatment allows for continued riding. The condition requires diligent management, quick response and regular maintenance. In some cases, you may need to use anti-inflammatory medications to sustain a horse's athletic performance. However, horses can still have a meaningful riding career.

Is it possible to prevent arthritis in horses?

Taking action to prevent equine arthritis is key. Considering a horse’s conformation or housing and training environments, you can help prevent future joint issues by:

• Incorporating research-backed joint supplements to support healthy joints and improved mobility.
• Prioritizing hoof care and keeping horses on a regular trim schedule.
• Avoiding obesity risk and maintaining horses at their optimum weight, reducing joint stress.
• Ensuring they receive excellent nutrition to encourage strong bones and healthy cartilage.
• Limiting riding on hard surfaces and instead opting for softer footing.

Can equine arthritis be managed and treated?

“Long-term management will likely require pain control through the form of prescription medications or pain relief supplements,” Hawkins adds.

If your horse has been diagnosed with arthritis, your veterinarian will work closely with you on joint health needs to prevent further progression of joint damage. Anti-inflammatory prescription medications, available as tablet, topical or injectable solutions, can help manage a horse’s pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis. These are available with a prescription from your veterinarian.

Keep in mind: Ensuring your horse’s joint health is a joint effort. Refer to these insights above to help identify whether your equine partner may be showing signs of equine arthritis.