Equine arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, is a common and painful condition in horses characterised by joint inflammation and cartilage degradation. It can lead to lameness, stiffness, and decreased performance. While there's no cure, various management strategies can help improve a horse's quality of life.

• Wear and tear: Age, repetitive strain from work, and high-impact activities like jumping can contribute. 
• Joint injuries: Fractures, ligament or meniscus tears can lead to arthritis. 
• Infection: Septic arthritis can develop after injections, injuries, or surgery. 
• Poor conformation: Abnormal joint structure can increase stress and predispose to arthritis. 

Some common sigs of arthritis include.

• Lameness: Altered gait, difficulty bearing weight on affected limb.
• Stiffness: Particularly noticeable after rest, may improve with exercise.
• Joint pain: Visible or detectable on palpation and flexion.
• Swelling: Effusion (swelling) in affected joints.
• Reduced range of motion: Difficulty flexing or extending the joint.
• Exercise intolerance: Decreased ability to perform tasks. 

An accurate diagnosis of arthritis (and which joints are affected) will help you establish a treatment plan and best outcome for your patient. It may also help to judge quality of life, performance prospects and general expected outcomes or causes.

What is included in a veterinary visit?

• Physical and lameness exams: Veterinarians assess gait, palpate joints, and observe movement.
• X-rays: Used to evaluate joint damage and rule out other conditions.
• Other imaging: MRI or CT scans may be used in some cases. 

Joint Supplements are one component of a detailed management plan that may include some of the following

• Exercise: Controlled exercise can help maintain joint health and reduce stiffness. 
• Medications: NSAIDs (like phenylbutazone or firocoxib) can reduce inflammation and pain. 
• Joint injections: Corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid can provide temporary pain relief and improve joint function. 
• Supplements: Glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and other supplements may help support joint health. i.e 4cyte, pentosan, hyaluronic acid
• Weight management: Keeping horses at a healthy weight reduces stress on joints. 
• Farrier care: Proper hoof trimming and shoeing can help correct gait and reduce strain. 
• Environmental management: Providing soft footing and comfortable stalls can be helpful. 
• Alternative therapies: Acupuncture, chiropractic, and laser therapy may provide relief in some cases.