Tendons, joints and ligaments play a vital role when it comes to movement. But also in delivering performance. However, they are also one of the most injury-prone parts of the horse’s body. Whether you train a sport horse or are a recreational rider, a good understanding of the function and health of tendons and joints is essential to prevent injuries. In this article, we’ll answer frequently asked questions and provide tips on prevention.
How do you recognise a tendon or joint injury?
Injuries to the tendons and joints can give subtle, but sometimes very clear signals. Symptoms such as swelling, warmth or tenderness in the affected area often indicate a problem. In addition, stiffness and lameness may occur, especially after exercise. If a horse has difficulty bending or stretching a joint or shows an irregular gait, it is a sign to take immediate action.
What are the most common causes of injury?
Tendon and joint injuries are often caused by overuse. This can happen when a horse exercises too intensely without adequate rest or recovery. Other causes include incorrect shoeing, incorrect warm-up or cool-down and working on too hard or uneven surfaces. Acute injuries can also occur from a sudden misstep or fall.
Prevention is always better than cure
Nutrition plays a major role in supporting healthy tendons and joints. A well-balanced diet rich in protein, omega 3 fatty acids and antioxidants helps with the maintenance of connective tissue. Specific dietary supplements such as glucosamine, chondroitin and collagen can help maintain flexible joints, tendons and healthy cartilage. By providing your horse with a balanced ration that contains these important building blocks, you can significantly reduce the risk of injury and contribute to a faster recovery after intense exercise or slight overexertion. Prevention starts with the right nutrition.
Supplements to support healthy tendons and joints
The right nutrition plays an essential role in supporting a healthy musculoskeletal system in horses. Supplementing the diet can be useful.
Cavalor Arti Motion is ideal for horses performing light work or that are still in their growth phase. This supplement contains important building blocks such as glucosamine, chondroitin, collagen and MSM, which contribute to the maintenance of strong tendons and joints. It supports the daily maintenance of the musculoskeletal system and provides preventive protection against injuries, especially for young horses or horses that are still developing.
For sport horses or horses engaged in intensive exercise, Cavalor Arti Matrix offers extra support. This supplement is designed to meet the increased needs of the musculoskeletal system in horses that are subjected to heavy loads. Cavalor Arti Matrix offers a comprehensive solution to problems with bones, tendons, joint capsules, cartilage and synovial fluid. It is particularly effective in horses with a sensitive musculoskeletal system or horses dealing with acute or structural joint problems. In addition to the nutrients that support joints, the supplement also contains ingredients that help optimise physiological processes, allowing the horse to recover faster and perform at peak levels again.
For the sport horse: Seven years of research
Cavalor ArtiTec provides everything top sport horses need during periods of intense exertion. The supplement, which was created after 7 years of scientific research in collaboration with Ghent University, not only supports the health of tendons and joints, but also protects against overexertion and damage. Thanks to the specific combination of ingredients, the herbs work synergistically to stop negative processes in the musculoskeletal system before they cause damage. Research showed that 97% of the horses absorbed Cavalor ArtiTec well and that 74% showed a visible improvement in their movement.
During recovery periods
Cavalor Arti Repair provides nutritional support during recovery periods for horses that are prone to overexertion. It contains a unique combination of ingredients essential for a supple musculoskeletal system and promotes natural tissue regeneration. This supplement contains undenatured type I collagen from eggshell membrane and type II collagen, in addition to well-known joint-supporting ingredients such as glucosamine, MSM, vitamin C and minerals such as copper, zinc and manganese. Furthermore, Cavalor Arti Repair also contains oils from such plants as dandelion, clove and cinnamon, which support the musculoskeletal system and blood circulation, promoting recovery after exertion.
