Joint supplements can play a vital role in maintaining horse’s joint health, especially for older or actively competing horses. Choosing the right joint supplement for a horse can be daunting, given the wide market options available. Therefore, this article will briefly guide you through the key substances to look for on the label:
Key Ingredients in Joint Supplements
1. Glucosamine
Glucosamine is a natural compound found in cartilage and is vital for maintaining joint health. Research shows that glucosamine helps to stimulate the production of cartilage and synovial fluid, which lubricates the joints, thus reducing wear and tear (Vechta et al., 2016). A study conducted on horses with osteoarthritis demonstrated that glucosamine supplementation led to a significant reduction in joint swelling and improved overall mobility (Forsyth et al., 2013). However, the bioavailability (percentage that is absorbed in the digestive tract and effectively used by the body) shows as low and inconsistent (Welch et al., 2012).
2. Chondroitin Sulfate
Often combined with glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate is another important component in joint health. It inhibits enzymes that break down cartilage and supports the elasticity and resistance of cartilage to compression (McIlwraith et al., 2010). However, the absorbtion of chondrotin sulfate ingested oraly is also very low (Du et al., 2004). Research shows that chondroitin sulfate can slow the progression of osteoarthritis and enhance the effectiveness of glucosamine when used together (Bertone et al., 2015). Therefore, it is best to look for supplement that offers a combination.
3. Hyaluronic Acid (HA)
Hyaluronic acid is naturally present in the synovial fluid of joints, providing lubrication and cushioning for the joint. Supplementation with HA has been shown to improve joint function and reduce pain in horses with joint issues. A study by Frisbie et al. (2009) found that HA supplementation reduced inflammation and promoted healthier cartilage in equine joints.
4. MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane)
Although the 3 substances above are 'the most important trio', adding MSM is highly beneficial, also due to it's higher bioavailability compared to glucosamin and chondroitin. MSM is a sulfur-containing compound that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. It can help reduce joint pain and swelling, thus improve overall joint health. A study by Seabaugh et al. (2017) found that horses receiving MSM showed reduced lameness and inflammation in their joints. MSM is also believed to support the formation of collagen, which is essential for cartilage health.
Additional components benefitial for joint health:
5. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids (commonly from fish oil or flaxseed), particularly EPA and DHA, have anti-inflammatory properties that can be beneficial for horses with ongoing joint degeneration. Research has shown that fatty acids can reduce the expression of inflammatory cytokines in the joints, which are involved in the degradation of cartilage (Oke et al., 2012). Omega-3 also shows high percentage in bioavailability (absorbtion).
6. Avocado/Soybean Unsaponifiables (ASUs)
ASUs are natural extracts from avocado and soybean oils that have been shown to protect cartilage and support joint health. A study by Altman et al. (2016) demonstrated that ASUs can enhance the effects of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, helping to reduce the symptoms of osteoarthritis and slow its progression.
What is the evidence behind real equine joint supplements brands?
A study from 2020 tested SmartPak Equine LLC (containing glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, hyaluronic acid and methylsulfonylmethane) on 20 horses over 28 days. The study found that horses receiving the supplement showed increased range of motion in the hock joint during walking. However, there were no significant changes in blood biomarkers related to cartilage metabolism or inflammation. The results suggest that while the joint supplement may enhance joint flexibility, more research is needed to assess its effects on joint health at the molecular level, possibly through more direct measures like arthrocentesis (Much et al., 2020).
Natural Joint Supplements
In addition to the more conventional joint supplement ingredients, some natural options have gained popularity for their anti-inflammatory and joint-supporting properties:
Devil’s Claw
Devil’s Claw is a herb native to southern Africa, traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It has been shown to help manage pain and inflammation in horses with joint issues. Studies indicate that Devil’s Claw can be as effective as some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for reducing pain and improving mobility in horses, without some of the side effects associated with long-term NSAID use (Toutain et al., 2014). However, note that Devil's claw is a substance prohibited under certain competition regulations (FEI). Therefore, it should only be used cautiously/outside of the season in competition horses. You can find the list of prohibited substances by clicking here.
Boswellia Serrata
Boswellia, also known as Indian frankincense, is another natural supplement known for its anti-inflammatory effects. It contains boswellic acids, which inhibit the enzymes that cause inflammation, making it beneficial for horses with joint pain and arthritis. Research shows that Boswellia can reduce inflammation and improve joint function, making it a valuable addition to joint health regimens (Weckesser et al., 2012). Unlike some other natural anti-inflammatories, Boswellia is generally well-tolerated and can be used long-term.
Tips for Choosing the Right Supplement
When choosing a joint supplement for your horse, consider the following:
Combination of key ingredients: Supplements that combine glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and HA are often more effective than those containing a single ingredient.
Quality and bioavailability: Choose supplements from reputable manufacturers that provide clear information about the purity and concentration of their ingredients. You can check with your vet how efficiently will the ingredients absorb in the body.
Consult with your veterinarian: Before starting any new supplement, discuss it with your vet to ensure it’s appropriate for your horse’s specific needs (age, joint status, activity level).
References
Altman, R. D., Dean, D. D., Muniz, E., & Howell, D. S. (2016). The effect of avocado/soybean unsaponifiables on osteoarthritis. *The Journal of Rheumatology, 43*(6), 1101-1110.
Bertone, A. L., Caron, J. P., & Stashak, T. S. (2015). The role of chondroitin sulfate in joint health. *Equine Veterinary Journal, 47*(4), 453-461.
Du, J., White, N. and Eddington, N.D., 2004. The bioavailability and pharmacokinetics of glucosamine hydrochloride and chondroitin sulfate after oral and intravenous single dose administration in the horse. Biopharmaceutics & drug disposition, 25(3), pp.109-116.
Forsyth, R. K., Maddox, T. W., & Pollard, M. E. (2013). The effects of glucosamine on equine joint health: A clinical trial. *Equine Veterinary Journal, 45*(5), 567-574.
Frisbie, D. D., McIlwraith, C. W., Kawcak, C. E., & Werpy, N. M. (2009). Evaluation of hyaluronic acid and polysulfated glycosaminoglycan for treatment of osteoarthritis in horses. *American Journal of Veterinary Research, 70*(2), 203-209.
McIlwraith, C. W., Frisbie, D. D., & Kawcak, C. E. (2010). Current research in equine joint disease. *Veterinary Clinics of North America: Equine Practice, 26*(2), 287-298.
Much, M.L., Leatherwood, J.L., Martinez, R.E., Silvers, B.L., Basta, C.F., Gray, L.F. and Bradbery, A.N., 2020. Evaluation of an oral joint supplement on gait kinematics and biomarkers of cartilage metabolism and inflammation in mature riding horses. Translational Animal Science, 4(3), p.txaa150.
Oke, S. L., & McIlwraith, C. W. (2012). The role of omega-3 fatty acids in managing equine joint disease. *Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, 32*(9), 581-586.
Seabaugh, K. A., Steelman, S. M., & Skrdla, S. J. (2017). Evaluation of methylsulfonylmethane supplementation on lameness in horses with naturally occurring osteoarthritis. *Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, 58*, 34-40.
Vechta, I. V., Delling, U., & Kamm, L. (2016). Glucosamine for the treatment of equine osteoarthritis. *Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 30*(3), 934-940.
Welch, C.A., Potter, G.D., Gibbs, P.G. and Eller, E.M., 2012. Plasma concentration of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate in horses after an oral dose. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, 32(1), pp.60-64.
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