Three Life Stages of Joint Health

with Dr Luke Wells-Smith

The Formative Years: Laying the Foundation for Health Joints

Understanding Developmental Orthopaedic Diseases (DOD).
The early stages of a horse’s life are critical for skeletal and joint development. During this period, young horses are particularly susceptible to various developmental orthopaedic diseases, including osteochondrosis (OC - bone cysts and fragments), physitis, and angular and flexural limb deformities. These conditions can profoundly affect a horse’s future mobility and overall quality of life. DOD arises from a complex interplay of genetic predisposition, nutritional imbalances, and inadequate or excessive exercise. Recognising the signs of these conditions early and understanding their prevention can set the groundwork for a lifetime of joint health.

Nutritional Strategies for Prevention.
A balanced diet is paramount in preventing DOD. Imbalances in key nutrients, such as calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D, can disrupt healthy bone growth and development. Feeding programs should be carefully tailored to the specific needs of growing horses, ensuring they receive all necessary nutrients without excess calories that could lead to rapid weight gain and increased stress on developing joints. Under veterinary guidance, the judicious use of supplements can support this balance, particularly in horses at high risk for DOD or those already showing signs of joint issues. Ensuring a consistent growth rate is important. Periods of rapid growth significantly increase the risk of DOD.

The Role of Exercise in Development.
Appropriately managed exercise is essential for developing strong bones and joints. While overexertion can heighten the risk of DOD, a well-structured exercise regimen with plenty of turnout and gentle, progressive training exercises can promote healthy growth. Such a regimen not only supports skeletal strength but also aids in the overall physical conditioning of the young horse, preparing it for the demands of later life stages. Depending on the breed, starting the horse at different maturity levels is important. Warmbloods are typically late maturing; therefore, starting ridden exercise later may be important. That being said, that doesn’t mean we can’t start in-hand training, which can improve strength before the initial training phase.

Early Veterinary Intervention.
Early detection of DOD through regular veterinary check-ups is crucial. Diagnostic techniques such as X-rays can help identify DOD, particularly OC. Performing a series of baseline limb x-rays before starting ridden work is essential to manage any OC that may have formed in the growth phases of the horse. Regular veterinary assessments also allow nutritional and exercise adjustments tailored to the individual horse’s development needs.

The Competitive Years: Managing Stress and Strain on Joints

The Impact of Competition on Joint Health.
As horses progress into their competitive years, their physical demands intensify. Training regimens become more rigorous, and the stress on joints increases, leading to a higher risk of osteoarthritis, tendonitis and ligament injuries. These conditions can severely impact a horse’s performance and well-being. Implementing comprehensive joint care strategies during this phase is vital for sustaining peak performance and extending a horse’s competitive career.

Conditioning and Training Techniques.
A well-designed conditioning program is essential for preparing horses for competition demands while minimising the risk of joint injury. Such programs should incorporate various exercises and terrains, known as cross-training, to enhance overall fitness and resilience while preventing undue joint wear. Flexibility exercises, strength training and endurance work can all play a role in a holistic conditioning strategy, ensuring the horse’s musculoskeletal system is optimally prepared for competition.

What Injuries can cause Osteoarthritis in Equine Athletes?
Osteoarthritis in horses is often the result of cumulative joint injuries over time. Direct trauma to the joint, repetitive stress injuries, and acute ligament strains or tears can all contribute to the development of this degenerative condition. Understanding the mechanisms of these injuries and implementing preventive strategies, such as appropriate warm-up routines, proper footing, appropriate hoof care and regular veterinary assessments, is key to mitigating the risk of osteoarthritis.

Advances in Joint Care and Treatment.
The field of veterinary medicine continues to make significant strides in treating and managing joint issues. Regenerative therapies, such as IRAP, ProStride, Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections and stem cell therapy, have shown promise in repairing damaged joint tissues and reducing inflammation, offering new avenues for treating and potentially reversing joint damage. Additionally, the use of targeted joint supplements, including glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and hyaluronic acid, can support joint health, though their effectiveness may vary between individuals.

The Role of Nutraceuticals in Joint Health.
Nutraceuticals, including 4Cyte and Pentosan, have emerged as valuable tools in managing equine joint health. 4Cyte, with its proprietary blend of ingredients, has been shown to support joint function and reduce inflammation, while Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium (PPS) offers anti-inflammatory benefits and aids in cartilage repair. These nutraceuticals can be integral to a comprehensive joint care plan, offering supportive benefits when used with other management strategies.

Rest, Recovery and Rehabilitation.
Adequate rest and recovery is as critical as active training in maintaining joint health. Recovery techniques, such as cold therapy, massage, and stretching, play vital roles in alleviating post-exercise joint stress and aiding in recovery. A carefully managed rehabilitation plan is crucial for horses recovering from injury to ensure a safe and effective return to competition. Tailoring rehabilitation programs to the specific needs of the injured horse, incorporating gradual increases in exercise intensity, and closely monitoring the horse’s response to treatment can optimise recovery outcomes.

The Golden Years: Comfort and Care for Retired Horses

Managing Chronic Conditions in Retirement.
As horses enter retirement, the focus shifts to maintaining comfort and quality of life. Chronic joint conditions, such as osteoarthritis, have become more common, requiring a comprehensive management approach that may include medical treatment, dietary adjustments and lifestyle modifications. Ensuring that retired horses maintain an appropriate level of activity, receive necessary medical care, and live in a comfortable, supportive environment is essential for their well-being during these years.

Pain Management Strategies.
Effective pain management is paramount for retired horses’ comfort and quality of life. The careful use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can offer relief from pain and inflammation, though they must be used judiciously to avoid potential side effects. Alternative pain management therapies, including acupuncture, chiropractic care and massage, can provide additional relief, often with fewer risks than long-term NSAID use. Tailoring pain management strategies to each horse’s individual needs and responses is key to optimising their comfort in retirement.

The Importance of Low-Impact Exercise.
A regular, low-impact exercise regimen is crucial for retired horses to preserve joint health and mobility. Activities such as gentle walking, light trotting and, where feasible swimming, can help keep joints flexible and muscles toned, contributing to overall health and well-being without placing excessive stress on aging joints. Regular exercise supports physical health and provides mental stimulation, enhancing the quality of life for retired horses.

Adaptations for Aging Horses.
Adapting the living environment and care routines to meet the needs of aging horses can significantly improve their comfort and quality of life in retirement. Providing soft bedding, ensuring easy access to food and water, and offering protection from harsh weather conditions are all essential considerations. Additionally, regular hoof care, grooming and dental maintenance remain important aspects of overall health care for retired horses. Ongoing veterinary check-ups are crucial to monitor the health of aging horses, allowing for timely adjustments to their care plans as needed.

Navigating the journey through a horse’s life presents unique challenges and opportunities for maintaining joint health at every stage. From the preventive measures essential during the formative years, to the comprehensive care required during the competitive phase and into retirement, understanding and addressing horses’ specific joint health needs is key to their wellbeing. With advances in veterinary medicine and the integration of strategies such as targeted nutraceuticals, horse owners, trainers and veterinarians are better equipped than ever to support the joint health of these magnificent animals throughout their lives. By implementing targeted care strategies and staying abreast of the latest developments in equine joint care, we can ensure that horses enjoy a lifetime of mobility and comfort, enriching the lives of those who care for them.

Dr Luke Wells-Smith is a veterinary podiatrist specialising in foot care and the management of foot related lameness in the equine athlete. Luke is the founder of Motion Equine, a business focussed on the overall management of high level equine athletes.
luke@motion-equine.com.au | www.motion-equine.com.au