Degenerative Joint Disease of the Fetlock in horses

Metacarpophalangeal joint (fetlock) injuries are common in horses. Repeated injury, overuse, and impact can often lead to degenerative joint diseases like osteoarthritis.

Fetlock trauma can damage the horse's articular cartilage, synovial membranes, ligaments, and the joint capsule. These injuries can, unfortunately, cause irreversible damage when they occur in a horse.

Several factors can intensify this condition: rough, uneven surfaces, uneven hoof trimming, excessive weight, poor background training, and excessive workload.

Proteoglycans in cartilage may disappear when biomechanical changes occur, reducing elasticity and causing inflammation. Therefore, the joint may have less Hyaluronic Acid, and erosive enzymes can become more concentrated.

Treatments for osteoarthritis in horses do not cure the disease but may manage the horse's pain and discomfort through a maintenance program. Each case is treated differently by veterinarians, depending on the severity of the condition.

A possible regime would include rest, physical therapy, medication, correct shoeing and trimming, surgery, and joint supplements that can help the horse recover.

Equine Joint Plus contains hyaluronic acid as one of its key ingredients.

In addition to its ability to lubricate, hyaluronic acid has high viscoelasticity, making it useful for shock absorption and joint support.

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