Degenerative joint disease (DJD) is a type of osteoarthritis. Osteo = bone, and arthritis = swelling of the joint. Within a healthy joint, cartilage acts as a buffer so that the bones do not rub together. In DJD, the cartilage has begun to break down. The resulting condition can affect the bone, the ligaments, the synovial area (fluid sacs which encapsulate a joint), or the soft tissue, with the end result being pain and lameness.

Causes

It can come from old age – just as our human bones and joints ache as we age – or it can arise from injury. It can also be genetic. Heavy breeds can be prone to DJD because their weight puts extra demand on their joints. The same goes for horses that are overweight. Overworking of the joints or bad shoes can also contribute to the disease.

Signs

• Heat at the joints
• Pain or swelling that does not go away
• Stiffness, especially after inactivity
• Horse is not performing like usual and appears to ache in its joints

DJD can arise in the spine and shoulders as well as the leg joints, so be sensitive to any signs of stiffness.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Early diagnosis by a vet is essential. An arthroscopy (where the doctor looks into the joint with a tiny camera) can assist the vet in recommending treatment.

Treatment will likely include rest followed by physical therapy. As with our own bodies, gentle exercise is needed as well as rest after exertion. Contrary to what might seem to make sense, total rest can further the disease since the muscles will atrophy or weaken around the joint area. Therefore, a program that includes a proper balance of movement followed by rest needs to be established with advice from your vet.

Medications can involve drugs similar to ones given to humans, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs), or steroid injections such as cortisone which is known to provide relief, however, at some risk. Recently-developed treatments include the injection of gelatinous material into the joint to replace lost or damaged cartilage/synovial fluid. Surgery, such as joint replacement, may be required in advanced cases.

Natural therapies have also been tested, such as glucosamine, a nutritional supplement which many people take for their own knee pain. Your vet will be the best judge of the modality of treatment, along with frequency.

Proper diagnosis of the cause of the DJD in your horse is important before your vet can recommend a treatment plan. Ask about natural supplements along with medications, and for help in establishing a rest/exercise program customized to your horse’s needs.

As with all equine illnesses, early diagnosis and prompt treatment is critical. Be in tune to your horse’s normal behavior for any signs of distress. Always check your horse’s legs every day for heat or swelling. Lastly, get your vet involved early to prevent worsening of the condition.