Arthritis and Joints in Horses
Easing your horse’s arthritis
Stiffness when starting work, mild lameness that comes and goes, less enthusiasm: arthritis often creeps in quietly, in older horses and sport horses alike. It cannot be cured, but veterinary follow-up and regular care help keep a horse comfortable and moving well.
Massage balm
- Three anti-inflammatory oils
- Gently warming
- Shea butter
- A dab per area
- Keep below 20 °C
39,00 €
Thermequin Terre — Dead Sea mud for horses
- 24% magnesium
- Neither clay nor marine mud
- One tub
- Won't dry the skin
From 44,00 €
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What is arthritis in horses?
Osteoarthritis is the gradual wear of the cartilage covering the bones inside the joint, together with chronic inflammation. Cartilage regenerates very slowly: once damaged, the lesions become irreversible. It mainly affects the fetlocks, hocks, knees and stifles, but also the back and neck.
The causes add up: age, hard work or work on hard ground, old injuries that weren't treated properly, conformation faults, or excess weight that overloads the joints.
Arthritis in horses: symptoms to watch for
- Stiffness when cold, which wears off after a few minutes of work.
- Mild or intermittent lameness.
- A swollen or warm joint.
- Difficulty with certain movements, reluctance to work, a change in behaviour.
Diagnosis is a job for the vet: flexion tests, observation in movement, X-rays or ultrasound. The earlier it is made, the easier it is to slow the progression.
How to ease an arthritic horse day to day
Adapt daily life. Regular movement rather than long periods in the stable, a longer warm-up, soft surfaces, controlled weight.
External care, alongside veterinary follow-up:
- Thermequin Terre: as part of the care routine for ridden horses, or as a course of a few days during a flare-up. A thin layer on the joint, for at least 30 minutes, then brush or wash off.
- Massage Balm: andiroba, used in the Amazon for joint pain, is at the heart of its formula. A hazelnut-sized amount and two minutes of massage, before work for its gentle warming effect, or after.
Our articles on arthritis in horses
Arthritis in horses: frequently asked questions
Can arthritis be cured?
No, it is irreversible. The aim is to keep the horse comfortable and slow its progression, with veterinary follow-up and regular care.
Can an arthritic horse keep working?
Often yes, with suitable work: regular movement keeps the joints going. Your vet will help you find the right level of effort.
How often should I apply the mud?
Routinely after work for ridden horses, or as a course of a few consecutive days during a flare-up.
Does this care replace treatment?
No. It complements the treatment decided with your vet.
