supplements for spinal arthritis

[gillcook]

Anyone used a supplement that has helped with spinal arthritis (my mare has it in articular facets in lumbar region) I have been delving around on the internet and just read that because bone structure is different in horses spine then the usual joint supplements won't help. Just wondered if anyone had any joy??

 

[hollyzippo]

Hi, Im a spinal therapist so will be interested if you find anything that works.
I agree that normal supplements eg cortaflex, newmarket etc are unlikely to work as its not a joint as we usually think of one. Lumbar vertebrae are very immobile so improving flexibility thru drugs isnt really an option as far as I know.
Lots of flexing and suppling exercises sounds called for.
Be interested if you do find anything tho, good luck!

 

[ihatework]

It may be worth discussing the drug tildren with your vet, I believe some vets are starting to try this on spinal problems, it may not be suitable for your chaps condition but could be worth asking about.

 

[MagicMelon]

I know hollyjz has said feeding usual joint supplements probably wont work (and she obviously knows what she's talking about!!) but just thought Id mention that Ive been feeding NAF Superflex and found that one of my horses who is sensitive backed and usually cold backed when I get on, seems to have stopped being so bad. I know the spine is different though but TBH Ive found it works for my boys back.

Really though you'd need to discuss this with your vet and see what he advises.

 

[pfarrugia]

talk to your vet about adequan - I know it worked on my boys arthritis a treat. I did the injections myself itra-muscular but I know they do an intra-articular one too that would get straight to the joint - I didn't choose this option as would have cost me more! Good luck