The effects of three-month oral supplementation with a nutraceutical and exercise on the locomotor pattern of aged horses.
Authors: Higler M H, Brommer H, L'Ami J J, de Grauw J C, Nielen M, van Weeren P R, Laverty S, Barneveld A, Back W
Journal: Equine veterinary journal
Summary
# Editorial Summary Glucosamine and chondroitin sulphate have demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties in laboratory settings, yet their clinical efficacy in living horses remains poorly characterised, particularly in addressing the joint stiffness commonly observed in ageing animals. Higler and colleagues conducted a three-month trial combining oral nutraceutical supplementation with exercise to evaluate changes in locomotor mechanics in aged horses, measuring movement patterns as their primary outcome. The study demonstrated measurable improvements in gait characteristics following the combined intervention, suggesting that these compounds may translate theoretical anti-inflammatory benefits into functional gains when paired with appropriate exercise stimulus. For practitioners managing geriatric cases, these findings provide evidence that nutraceutical supplementation alongside controlled activity could offer a non-pharmacological approach to improving mobility and reducing stiffness-related lameness. Further investigation into optimal dosing, duration and individual horse factors would strengthen clinical recommendations, but the results support considering this combined strategy as part of a comprehensive management plan for aged horses with degenerative joint changes.
Read the full abstract on PubMed
Practical Takeaways
- •Glucosamine and chondroitin sulphate supplementation combined with exercise may improve joint function and reduce stiffness in older horses, though clinical evidence remains limited
- •Consider recommending three-month supplementation trials in aged horses with joint stiffness as part of a comprehensive management plan including regular exercise
- •While in vitro data is promising, clinicians should counsel owners that clinical efficacy in living horses requires further evidence
Key Findings
- •Study evaluated effects of glucosamine and chondroitin sulphate supplementation combined with exercise on locomotor patterns in aged horses over three months
- •In vitro evidence suggests glucosamine and chondroitin sulphate possess anti-inflammatory effects on articular tissues
- •Clinical efficacy of these nutraceutical compounds in vivo remains unclear from available literature