Mobility Problems

JOINT PROBLEMS ,ARTHRITIS

Is a condition where there is articular cartilage damage within a joint. There may be damage to the synovial membrane which secretes synovial fluid. There may be changes to the viscosity of synovial fluid, development of spurs at joint margin and inflammation.
Causes:
These may include:
  • Physical damage after a severe sprain, fracture, infection or a degenerative condition (free radical damage)
  • Accumulation of uric acid salts in joint and cartilage.
  • Over loading the system with high energy feed. Excess protein leading to increased blood ammonia conc.
  • Metabolic bone disease in young horses due to excess feeding of calcium and phosphorous and not enough exercise.
  • Poor utilisation of calcium due to excess levels of phosphorous. ( Too much bran)
  • Reduced available calcium due to excess eating of oxalates in grass and some weed species.
  • Vitamin D in excess which leads to calcium deposits in blood vessels, decreased ability to exercise and poor bone development.
  • Low levels of prostaglandin E1 which is produced by the body and is responsible for stopping the release of damaging enzymes that are released during the inflammatory phase.
  • Higher levels of the inflammation-promoting prostaglandin E2.
Clinical signs:
  • Stiff and reluctant to move at beginning of exercise improving as horse warms up.
  • Heat and distension of joint and pain on flexion.
  • May have joint enlargement due to fibrous tissue and new bone production
Treatment:
There is no cure for arthritis and related problems. Aims of treatment will address
  • Pain relief and to manage inflammation. To increase levels of prostaglandin E1
  • The reduction of joint capsule and soft tissue inflammation. To encourage cartilage regeneration.
  • To improve lubrication of the joint and viscosity of synovial fluid.
  • To stimulate production of sodium hyaluronate by synovial membrane
Alternative Preventative and Herbal Treatment.
  • Rest during acute stage with massage over the affected areas. Short periods of walking in hand.
  • Reduce inflammation and to balance prostaglandin levels and protect lipid layer around the cells between 15 and 20ml Hira Omega Complex Oil.
  • Inflammation and pain may be treated with Devil’s Claw tincture, Chamomile Tincture and/or Hira Joint Tonic.
  • Restore viscosity (thickness) of synovial fluid. 1 tsp of glucosamine sulphate daily or Hira Mega Joint Tonic with glucosamine.
  • To address free radical damage by providing plant material rich in antioxidants and flavonoids. Green tea tailings daily, proflavonals from grapeseed. Feed rich in beta –carotene. Calendula tincture, carrots, apple cider vinegar are just few.
  • To prevent systemic infections by addressing immune system. Tonic with Echinacea, St John’s Wort and olive leaves.
  • Flush the kidneys by providing diuretic herbs like cleavers, dandelion, parsley root.
  • Improve liver function, circulation, flushing uric acid from system, addressing ammonia levels in blood by providing a tonic with cayenne, gingko, birch leaves, nettle, devils claw, ashwaganda.
  • Gingko tincture, 20mls twice daily, will improve circulation and prevent the breakdown of arachidonic acid.
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