What to Put In & What to Put On: Joints

Make a sound investment

Your horse’s joints help power his motion, and keeping them healthy is key to keeping him moving comfortably for years to come.

However, a  study in the Equine Veterinary Journal identified joint changes in a herd of wild mustangs, and the researchers concluded that the degenerative process occurs in all horses. This means that all horses, including yours, are at risk for progressive and permanent joint damage.

The best way to help keep your horse going strong is to support his joints inside and out with a combination of the right supplement and smart management practices.

Your horse’s body has the ability to repair and rebuild after moderate “wear and tear” from light activity, but the increasing demands of riding and training could cause more damage than it can keep up with. Joint supplements help support your horse by providing a steady supply of the ingredients he needs to cope with the demands of his workload.

Mother Nature’s big three

Three of the major ingredients for joint health are glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and hyaluronic acid. We like to call them “Mother Nature’s Big Three” because they are forms of the nutrients your horse’s body already produces.

Glucosamine plays an important role in the protection of joints, and research suggests it supports the production of new cartilage. Chondroitin sulfate stimulates the production of hyaluronic acid and inhibits the enzymes that break down cartilage. Hyaluronic acid is an integral component of joint cartilage and joint fl uid that provides both lubrication and shock absorption.

Soft tissue support

Collagen and silica are smart choices for helping maintain strong, resilient connective tissues, like tendons and ligaments.

Top picks for healthy joints

Light work

Moderate work

Heavy work

Very heavy work

Before your ride

The soothing far infrared heat that Back on Track Quick Wraps create can help alleviate discomfort associated with inflamed muscles, ligaments, tendons, and joints.

During your ride

Protect your horse’s front and hind legs from interference with the Eskadron Protection Boots Value Pack or the VenTECH Elite Sports Medicine Boot Value Pack.

After your ride

Vetrolin Liniment helps relieve the minor stiffness and discomfort that your horse may experience after workouts.

Ice Horse Tendon Wraps are the perfect way to provide cooling and compression after a hard ride.

This ships free!

A clay poultice like Icetight Poultice can take the place of tubbing, icing, or hosing your horse’s legs.