J is for joints

They claim to decrease inflammation, increase mobility, provide the building blocks for cartilage synthesis, and basically contribute to the overall health of moveable joints. Joint supplements are generally used for;

1. The older, arthritic horse

2. The horse convalescing from a joint injury or

3. The working, competing horse with no sign of injury.

There are literally hundreds of joint supplements available on the market place, which can be very confusing, especially with new products and ingredients appearing all the time. In order to be able to choose what is best for you horse then it is best to have some knowledge of the main ingredients and what their likely effect may be.

Glucosamine

The majority of studies have been carried out on glucosamine, either glucosamine sulphate or glucosamine hydrochloride (both are effective in horses). Glucosamine is the basic building block of all connective tissues in all forms of life. It has been shown to be effective for relieving pain, sometimes in as short a time as 10-14 days. Studies also show that it can slow cartilage break down and may even encourage healing. The effective dose required for a horse is 6,000 to 10,000 mg/day. The higher level is usually the level that is used during the “loading” period. Most supplements recommend a higher level of use for the first 1-2 weeks which helps speed up results.

Chondroitin sulphate

A major structural component of cartilage, bone and tough connective tissues, chondroitin’s pain relieving effects are not as obvious as with glucosamine. Formal studies give mixed results, but its main benefit appears to be the prevention of further cartilage breakdown. Studies have shown that an effective dose is 1,250-5,000mg/day.

Glucosamine + Chondroitin in combination

The majority of recent research has been carried out on the combination of glucosamine and chondroitin. With the combination showing superior results as compared to when each was used separately. Some supplements will use a reduced level of each of the ingredients when they are used in combination, claiming that when used in combination the levels can be reduced. This has never been proven in any trials however and until such research is carried out, it is best to use a supplement that provides the full effective dose of glucosamine and as close to the correct dose of chondroitin as possible.

HA (Hyaluronic Acid)

This is another ingredient found in some joint supplements. It is an important component of the cartilage itself and also of the joint fluid. It has been used very successfully as an injectable and as a gel, but also appears in oral supplements. It is cited as being good for controlling heat and swelling. An effective dose has been found to be 100mg/day, but as little as 20mg/day, when part of a combined glucosamine/chondroitin supplement makes a difference to some horses.

MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane)

An effective anti-inflammatory, research on this particular addition in joint supplements is scanty. One study showed that it takes a dose of 20,000mg/day to have an effect on horses with arthritic hocks. It would be very rare for MSM to be added to joint supplements to provide this level per day.

ASU (Avacado and Soya Unsaponifables)

Studies have shown that these may have a protective effect against cartilage breakdown. ASU is classified as chondroprotective (chondro= cartilage). It is a slow acting substance and effects will not be seen quickly. How it compares to the standard glucosamine/chondroitin supplements or as an addition has not been studied.

Cod-liver oil

Much research has been carried out on the effects of fish oils (contain omega-3 fatty acids) on joint pain in all species. The omega-3 fatty acids in cod-liver oil have an anti-inflammatory response within the body, which in turn can help ease inflamed arthritic joints. Cod liver oil is also worth feeding to veterans as the omega 3 fatty acids in fish oil can not only help with any joint pain due to its anti-inflammatory properties but it will also boost immunity and help with co-ordination.

Others

There are many other additives that are added to or appear as stand alone supplements for joints. These include herbs such as devil’s claw and boswelenia, these can also be very effective but may not be legal for competition rules and so it is best to check before using these supplements. Mostly these are used as bute replacements and for pain relief and would have little use in a protective role. As with all things make sure that these types of products are manufactured by a reputable company to ensure that the quality control is good.

Newest additive

One of the newest additives to appear in joint supplements is rose-hip (rosa canina). Rosa canina contains all sorts of “goodies” but most significantly for joint relief it contains a galactolipid substance which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. One particular extract has been trade-marked by one company and is known as GOPO®. There are a few supplements on the market that use rosehip extract but one in particular has published studies in horses that show that it may support the body’s natural recovery process and can help to support the body’s recovery from inflammation associated with exercise training.

Human research

The most recent research in to the use of the combination of chondroitin and glucosamine in humans with arthritis may have raised some concern in the horse community. Whilst the combination was found to be ineffective in humans the study should not be translated to horses. There have been no UK based studies to show that the combination works but there has elsewhere in the world, and anecdotal evidence (whilst not scientific) should also be taken into account.

In summary

The array of available joint supplements can be very confusing for horse owners, hopefully the above summary has helped with making an educated choice. If in any doubt it is safest to use supplements that have carried out or cited research to back up their claims. If you are still not sure then, as always, contact the supplement manufacturers and/or speak to a nutritionist.