The Best Horse Joint Supplements & Constituents for Optimal Joint Health

April 5, 2023 Chris Durkan

Good joint health is essential for horses of all ages and levels of activity. If you're looking to support your horse's joints, supplements are often a great option.

In this article, we'll review the best joint health supplements currently on the market and discuss the key features and benefits of each one. We'll cover important topics such as ingredients, dosage guidance, customer feedback, safety, effectiveness, and more.

With these comprehensive reviews, you can feel confident when selecting the ideal supplement for your horse's joint needs and issues such as splints. There are a number of causes of joint issues including over worked and overweight horses.

View our complete horse joint supplement range

Chondroprotective Agents

A horse with healthy joints, supported by joint supplements

Joint supplements for horses often contain chondroprotective agents, which are substances that protect articular cartilage during the course of osteoarthritis. Chondroprotective agents can include polysulfated glycosaminoglycans, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), pentosan polysulfate sodium, hyaluronan, and orgotein. These substances inhibit metalloproteinase enzymes and prevent softening of cartilage with inflammation. Chondroprotective agents can also provide molecular constituents needed to repair articular cartilage, thus providing a protective effect.

Glucosamine and chondroitin are the two most studied equine pharmaceuticals for joint supplements. Glucosamine is a naturally occurring chemical used by the body to build and repair cartilage, and is available in three forms: hydrochloride, sulfate, and N-acetyl-D-glucosamine. Studies on yearling quarter horses have not shown any alteration of serum biomarkers of improved joint health. Glucosamine has been found to provide pain relief, reduce tenderness, and improve mobility in horses, but more research is needed.

Chondroitin is a dietary supplement that is a vital part of cartilage and helps keep cartilage healthy. Chondroitin sulfate is extracted from shark cartilage or green lipped mussels and can be found in natural sources. Research results indicate that chondroitin sulfate may have anti-inflammatory properties, and some efficacy in horses. It is possible to manufacture chondroitin with a very small chain length and low molecular weight, and it appears safe with no adverse effects.

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a naturally occurring organosulfur compound found in some green plants, animals, and humans. It is an important component of synovial fluid, which lubricates and cushions joints, and is thought to have anti-inflammatory and joint comfort benefits. Studies have suggested that MSM may be beneficial in the management of arthritis and other joint diseases in horses, however more research is required. Our recommend product is EAC MSM.

It is important to consider the various factors when choosing a joint supplement for your horse, such as whether their diet is missing anything, the benefits of using joint supplements, and how long it takes for joint supplements to work. For example, Equine America Cortaflex HA Super Fenn is a joint supplement formulated with glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM, and has a recommended daily measure of 7.5g. Other products, such as EquiNutritive Alpha Gold, contain turmeric, aloe vera, coconut oil, and linseed oil to support joint cartilage, while Maxavita Maxaflex contains green-lipped mussel extract, glucosamine, MSM, and HA.

Glucosamine

Glucosamine is a natural chemical that is used by the body to build and repair cartilage. It is available in two forms: glucosamine sulphate and glucosamine hydrochloride. Studies on yearling quarter horses have not shown any alteration of serum biomarkers of improved joint health, however cell culture studies and animal studies have found evidence that glucosamine may provide pain relief, reduce tenderness, and improve mobility in horses.

Glucosamine is typically administered orally to horses as a salt (HCL or sulfate). It is important to consult with a veterinarian before starting any joint supplement for your horse to ensure that the dosage and ingredients are appropriate for your horse's needs. Potential mechanisms of action of glucosamine supplementation include preventing degradation of cartilage, delaying the onset of symptoms of osteoarthritis, and providing molecular constituents needed to repair articular cartilage. NAFTA. Five Star Superflex is one product that contains readily absorbed glucosamine, chondroitin, and the highest quality MSM.

Glucosamine is also a precursor catalyst for the formation of niacinamide and glucosamine. Methionine is a precursor for producing niacinamide. Glucosamine is also derived from this process. As such, it is important to ensure that your horse's diet contains the necessary components for glucosamine production.

Glucosamine supplementation may provide pain relief, reduce tenderness, and improve mobility in horses, making it an important chondroprotective agent to consider when looking for joint health supplements. While more research is needed to determine the efficacy of glucosamine for horses, it may be a beneficial addition to your horse's joint supplement regimen.

Chondroitin

Chondroitin is a dietary supplement that is a vital part of cartilage and helps keep cartilage healthy. Chondroitin sulfate is extracted from shark cartilage or green lipped mussels and can be found in natural sources. Research results indicate that chondroitin sulfate may have anti-inflammatory properties and some efficacy in horses. It is possible to manufacture chondroitin with a very small chain length and low molecular weight, and it appears safe with no adverse effects.

When choosing a joint supplement for your horse, consider the benefits of using chondroitin, as well as other supplements, to ensure optimal joint health. Products such as Equine America Cortaflex HA Super Fenn, Maxavita Maxaflex, and Equine Joint Formula contain chondroitin as part of their joint supplement formula.

It is important to consult with a veterinarian before starting any joint supplement for your horse to ensure that the dosage and ingredients are appropriate for your horse's needs.

Methylsulphonylmethane (MSM)

We have a comprehensive article on MSM. You can view the article here titled: Exploring The Benefits Of MSM For Horses.

Amino Acids

Amino acids are organic compounds that are used by all living things to make proteins. There are 20 different amino acids that are needed by the body to function properly, and 9 of them are essential, meaning they must be obtained through the diet. Amino acids are important for joint health, as they help to build and maintain healthy connective tissues and support the production of synovial fluid.

Supplementing with amino acids can help to protect and support joints, improve range of motion, and reduce inflammation. Additionally, some amino acids, such as glycine, may also help to reduce stress and aid in the digestion of other nutrients.

It is important to consider the recommended daily measure of EquiNutritive Alpha Gold when choosing a supplement for your horse's joint health.

Glycine

Glycine is an important amino acid that plays a role in joint health. Glycine is found in the body and can also be consumed through the diet. It is a building block for proteins, including collagen, and can play both stimulatory and depressant roles in the brain. Glycine supplementation has been shown to improve sleep quality and remove toxic substances from the body. It is also thought to have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties, which can help to protect the joints and reduce the risk of arthritis. Glycine is an essential ingredient in many joint supplements, such as Horse First My Joints Plus, and it is important to ensure that the supplement you choose contains this key amino acid.

Omega-3 fatty acids are also beneficial for joint health and can be found in both animal and plant sources. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to reduce inflammation and support the growth of cartilage. Herbs, such as devil's claw root and cleaver, are also commonly found in joint supplements, such as Hilton Herbs Multi-Flex Gold. These herbs have anti-inflammatory properties and can help support the joints.

Proline, methionine and lysine are also important amino acids for joint health. These amino acids help to build and maintain healthy connective tissue, as well as promote the growth of cartilage and collagen. They can be found in many joint supplements, such as Science Supplements FlexAbility Plus+, which is a popular product that contains glucosamine, chondroitin sulphate, MSM and hyaluronic acid. It is important to consider the recommended daily measure of this supplement when choosing a joint supplement for your horse.

Glycine is just one of many amino acids that can be beneficial for joint health, with proline being another important one. Resveratrol, which is found in blueberries, pines and Japanese knotweed, can also help to reduce inflammation and promote joint health. Animalife Vetroflex Original is a joint supplement that contains resveratrol, as well as other ingredients that can help to protect the cartilage and synovial fluid against deterioration, stimulate cartilage cells to promote more collagen and protect the joints from friction.

Proline

Proline is a non-essential amino acid that is both produced by the body and consumed through the diet. It plays important roles in protein synthesis and structure, metabolism, and acts as a structural disruptor in the middle of regular secondary structure elements such as alpha helices and beta sheets. Proline is also essential for the formation of collagen and plays a large role in skin healing.

Studies have shown that supplementing horses with omega-3 fatty acids from animals or plants can help improve joint health, although the efficacy was not determined. Proline is an important ingredient in joint supplements, as it helps to reduce inflammation and protect the joints from damage.

It is essential for the formation of collagen, which is a key component of joint health and can help protect the joints from damage. Many joint supplements, such as The Golden Paste Company TurmerAid, contain proline, as well as other ingredients such as turmeric, linseed oil, black pepper and yucca, that can help reduce inflammation and provide other benefits for joint health.

Hydroxyproline

Hydroxyproline is a nonessential amino acid derivative formed during post-translational protein modification through hydroxylation of the amino acid proline. It is a major component of the protein collagen, comprising roughly 13.5% of mammalian collagen. Hydroxyproline is an important ingredient in joint supplements for horses, as it helps to build and maintain healthy connective tissues, reduce inflammation and improve blood flow.

Research has shown that it can help improve joint health and reduce the risk of arthritis. Additionally, it can help to reduce stress, improve digestion and provide other benefits for joint health.

Hydroxyproline is an important ingredient in joint supplements for horses, and research has shown that it can help to improve joint health. Supplementing with hydroxyproline can help to protect and support joints, reduce inflammation and support the production of synovial fluid. Additionally, it can help to improve range of motion and provide other benefits for joint health.

It is important to consider the recommended daily measure of the supplement when choosing a joint supplement for your horse.

Research on Joint Supplements for Horses

When it comes to horse joint health, research is key to understanding the efficacy of different supplements. Studies have been conducted to evaluate the effects of joint supplements on equine joint health, both in the prevention and treatment of arthritis. The results of these studies have shown that certain compounds can play a role in maintaining healthy joints and reducing pain associated with arthritis.

Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are two of the most commonly studied joint supplements for horses. A 2008 study highlighted in this article found that a combined glucosamine-chondroitin sulfate supplement was effective in reducing oxidative stress in competitive jumping horses. This suggests that the supplement may help protect the joints from the increased concussive forces experienced during wet ground and roadwork.

In addition to glucosamine and chondroitin, omega-3 fatty acids have also been studied for their potential benefits in equine joint health. Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation can help prevent and protect humans from arthritis. This is strongly suggested by the high-quality evidence available. Studies have used equine-derived cells in cell culture to suggest that omega-3 fatty acids play a useful role in horses for minimizing osteoarthritis. These fatty acids are essential nutrients for optimal health in horses.

Finally, methylsulphonylmethane (MSM) has also been studied for its potential benefits in joint health. In vivo (animal) studies have demonstrated that MSM has the potential to reduce inflammation in mice and rats and provide protective effects against cartilage degradation. However, more research is needed to determine the most effective equine dose of MSM and other joint supplements.

By understanding the research on joint supplements for horses, as well as the factors to consider when choosing a supplement, horse owners can make an informed decision about the best supplement for their horse.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Supplement

When choosing a joint supplement for horses, there are several factors to consider. The age and activity level of the horse is an important factor as different supplements may be more appropriate for different age groups and activity levels. The quality of the ingredients is also important, as some supplements may contain fillers or other ingredients of questionable quality.

The dosage of the ingredients should be considered as well, as some supplements may contain too little or too much of certain ingredients. Finally, it is important to look for a seal from the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC), as this indicates that the product has been independently tested for safety and efficacy.

By taking into account the age and activity level of the horse, the quality of the ingredients, the dosage of the ingredients, and the presence of a seal from the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC), you can make an informed decision about the best joint supplement for your horse.

Is Your Horse's Diet Missing Anything?

When it comes to caring for your horse's joints, it is important to consider what your horse's diet is missing. Joint supplements can provide key ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate, glucosamine, omega fatty acids, and collagen, which may be missing from your horse's diet. Additionally, these supplements can contain natural sources of joint support, such as shark cartilage and amino acids, which may not be available in a regular diet.

Research results have also found that combining different forms of joint supplements can provide more benefits than taking one form alone. By considering these factors, you can ensure that you are providing your horse with the best joint supplement for optimal joint health.

What Are the Benefits of Using Joint Supplements?

Joint supplements for horses can provide many benefits to improve joint health and function. Glucosamine, chondroitin, and hyaluronic acid are some of the most common ingredients found in joint supplements, and these ingredients can provide "building blocks" for articular cartilage, which may help delay, stabilize, or even repair joint damage. Additionally, joint supplements can help reduce pain and inflammation, as well as support synovial fluid production.

Furthermore, it is important to consider the cost of the supplement, as some supplements may be more expensive than others. Finally, it is important to check for prohibited substances if you are competing with your horse, as some joint supplements may contain banned substances.

By understanding the benefits of using joint supplements, the cost of the supplement, and any prohibited substances that may be present, you can make an informed decision on the best supplement for your horse.

How Long Does it Take for Joint Supplements to Work?

When it comes to joint health, it is important to consider how long it takes for joint supplements to work. Generally, joint supplements can take several weeks to work and the best results are seen after six weeks. However, the effectiveness may vary depending on the type of supplement and the individual's condition.

It is important to seek professional advice before introducing a new supplement to your horse's diet. A qualified equine nutritionist or other equine healthcare professional is best placed to advise you. By understanding the time frame and the factors to consider when choosing a supplement, you can ensure that your horse is getting the best joint supplement for optimal joint health.

Summary

As horses age, their joints naturally become less flexible and more prone to wear and tear. Horse owners can aid in the preservation of bone and joint health by providing their horses with a balanced diet and the right supplements. Choosing the right supplement for joint health is not a decision to take lightly as it could have an impact on the well-being of your horse.

The best joint supplement for horses contains chondroprotectant agents such as polysulfated glycosaminoglycans, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), pentosan polysulfate sodium, hyaluronan, and orgotein which work to protect and strengthen articular cartilage from wear and tear. Additionally, glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, amino acids like glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline, as well as omega-3 fatty acids should be included as they have various anti-inflammatory properties to reduce pain and improve mobility.

Before starting any new supplement, horse owners should always consult with a licensed veterinarian first to ensure that it is the right supplement for their horse. After determining which ingredients are best for your horse’s needs, look for supplements that have a seal of approval from the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) as these are more likely to contain higher levels of quality ingredients and accurate labeling.

When it comes to improving joint health, owners can never be too cautious. Luckily, there are a variety of joint supplements made specifically for horses that are available to help ensure optimal joint health. With the proper guidance and supplementation, you and your horse can keep doing the activities you love for years to come.