Clicking Joints?

[Bri]

I've noticed that the nag sometimes has clicking joints - most of the time it doesn't happen but occasionally it will be really loud and frequent. Appears to be coming from her back legs and I've noticed it riding and whilst she's in hand. She's only 4 so is this something I need to get checked out by the vet? Is it likely to cause her problems in the future?
Thanks guys.

 

[Lucy_Ally]

Spring has a clicky stifle. She is 9 and sound (touches lots of wood! Lol!). I give her Omega oils as they are meant to help with joint integrity, but I don't think that it's a major problem - just something to be aware of.

 

[Daisychain]

yes i agree with Dr spring, i have had horses which do this and the vet told me it is just the ligament snapping of the stifle, air popping! nothing to worry about and not painfull.

 

[brighteyes]

They're of no consequence. Ours is 27, going strong and has clicked most of her life.

 

[Walder]

i have had 2 clicking horses - never caused a problem x

 

[Governor]

Gov got clickly between 4 and 5, so he's on Flexy Limbs (Equus Health) and it seems to have cleared up (may well be natural or due to supplement?).

 

[monstermunch]

Clicking joints like in humans is completely normal. Some horses may click more than others but it does not necessarily cause a problem. If it is the joint itself clicking it is simply because air (carbon dioxide) is being pushed out which makes a popping noise. If the clicking is due to a ligament or tendon snapping over a joint then this can cause some problems in the future with tendonitis and inflammation however this is usally in areas such as the stifle. Joint supplements can and do reduce clicking as it aids in the lubrication of joints. I wouldn't worry too much although if the clicking is excessive i would advise a joint supplement as it can occassionaly mean that your horse may be a little more prone to arthritis due to slightly less joint fluid than other horses

 

[Gentle_Warrior]

I have clicking horse, vet and instructor say to ignore it. No pain no problem.

p.s. vet was out for jabs, did not call specifically out for clicking !!!! LOL

 

[Bri]

Excellent have put my mind at rest - thank you everyone!

 

[Moggy in Manolos]

my girl clicks too, vet checked it out a few years back when i first heard it and they said it was fine and to just feed cod liver oil to her

 

[harmony_]

my mare does this too! only its just a clicking noise, i got my friend to look and she is actually brushing her back hooves together! I do put back brushing boots on her whenever i ride.