Arthritis in Horses by a Vet – 2025 Guide to Joint Pain, Diagnosis & Management 🦴🐴
In this article
Arthritis in Horses by a Vet – 2025 Guide to Joint Pain, Diagnosis & Management 🦴🐴
By Dr Duncan Houston, BVSc
Introduction
Arthritis, also called osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease (DJD), is one of the most common causes of lameness and decreased performance in horses—especially those in heavy work or advancing age. In 2025, veterinary insights show that successful management involves addressing all three types of pain associated with arthritis, as well as tailoring treatment to the affected joints and the individual horse’s needs.
What Is Arthritis in Horses? 🦴
Arthritis is the inflammation of one or more joints, leading to:
- Cartilage degradation
- Synovial inflammation
- Joint capsule thickening
- Bone remodeling or bony spurs (osteophytes)
Most Commonly Affected Joints 📍
- Knees (carpi)
- Fetlocks
- Hocks
- Stifles
Classic Signs of Equine Arthritis 👀
- Lameness or uneven gait
- Stiffness after rest
- Joint swelling or heat
- Difficulty turning or picking up leads
- Reluctance to work or jump
Types of Pain in Arthritis 🧠
1. Nociceptive Pain
Caused by stimulation of pain receptors in the joint. It's the sharp or throbbing pain from damaged tissue.
2. Inflammatory Pain
Triggered by cytokines and mediators in the joint fluid that make pain receptors more sensitive.
3. Neuropathic Pain
Occurs when pain becomes chronic and alters the nervous system, often making the pain harder to treat.
Diagnosing Equine Arthritis 🔬
- Lameness exam and flexion tests
- Radiographs – though early-stage arthritis may not be visible
- Joint blocks to isolate pain source
- Ultrasound or advanced imaging in complex cases
Treatment & Management Options ✅
1. Weight Management ⚖️
- Excess weight puts more pressure on joints
- Weight loss may reduce inflammation and improve comfort
2. Joint Injections 💉
- Useful for targeted joint pain
- Commonly used meds include:
- Corticosteroids
- Hyaluronic acid
- Biologic agents like PRP or IRAP
- Risks include infection or cartilage damage with overuse
3. NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatories)
- Phenylbutazone (“bute”) is commonly used
- Reduces pain and inflammation but may cause gastric ulcers or kidney stress with long-term use
4. Supplements 🌿
- Many supplements claim to help, but few have scientific support
- Ask your vet for ones they’ve seen work, such as:
- Glucosamine & chondroitin sulfate
- MSM (methylsulfonylmethane)
- Avocado-soybean unsaponifiables (ASU)
5. Physical Rehabilitation 🏋️
- Controlled exercise and turnout to keep joints mobile
- Hydrotherapy, shockwave, massage, and stretching
6. Regenerative Therapies 🧬
- Stem cell therapy, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and IRAP offer promising long-term support
Prevention Tips 🛡️
- Warm up and cool down properly before/after exercise
- Cross-train to reduce repetitive joint strain
- Address any lameness or hoof imbalance early
- Provide good footing in arenas and stalls
Case Example: Senior Trail Mare with Stifle OA
- 15-year-old mare with intermittent hindlimb lameness
- Stifle arthritis diagnosed via flexion test and x-ray
- Started on daily MSM, reduced grain, and injected stifles with HA/steroid
- Returned to light work with improved comfort after 6 weeks
FAQs About Equine Arthritis
Q: Can arthritis be cured?
A: No. It is a degenerative condition. But it can be managed effectively with the right plan.
Q: Should I retire my arthritic horse?
A: Not necessarily. Many can remain active with adjusted workloads and treatment support.
Q: How long do joint injections last?
A: Typically 3–12 months, depending on severity and joint location.
Conclusion
Arthritis doesn’t have to end your horse’s riding career or comfort. In 2025, understanding and treating all three pain types—nociceptive, inflammatory, and neuropathic—is key to long-term comfort. Early diagnosis, tailored treatment, and weight control can make all the difference. If your horse shows stiffness, swelling, or reluctance to work, don’t wait—intervene early for better outcomes.
Need help building a joint health plan? Visit AskAVet.com or download our app 📱 to consult with Dr Duncan Houston for arthritis treatment options and prevention strategies. 🩺🐴
