Osteoarthritis - the facts
Osteoarthritis is a common cause of lameness in horses. It is a progressive degenerative condition and there is no cure, however it can often be managed. Osteoarthritis (also known as 'arthritis' and 'degenerative joint disease') is a degenerative condition of joints resulting in cartilage erosion and inflammation. Articular cartilage has very limited ability to repair so the condition is irreversible. Any joint injury or insult can result in osteoarthritis. Most cases are due to wear and tear. Horses are large animals and put huge forces on their joints. Injuries to ligaments or bone (chip fractures) and inflammation resulting from infection are also causes.Related topics [ Footcare / lameness ] [ The older horse ]
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Your questions answered
 Introduction: Osteoarthritis - the facts
How do I recognise osteoarthritis?
What should I do if I think my horse has these symptoms?
What will my vet do?
I have heard that intra-articular cortisone therapy damages the cartilage - is this true?
What can I do to prevent my horse developing osteoarthritis?
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