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Understanding Equine Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis refers to conditions where there is joint
inflammation with associated compromise of the bones that meet to form
the joint. The hallmark signs of joint inflammation
are heat, swelling, redness and pain.
An articular joint is composed of the following structures:
- At least two bones that meet to form the joint
- Articular cartilage that is located on the ends of the bones
- Lubricating material, called proteoglycans, produced by articular
cartilage to facilitate movement in the joint space
- Membranes, ligaments and tendons that enclose the joint for
support
Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition that is also called
degenerative joint disease, or DJD.
The development of osteoarthritis may be preceded by an acute
injury or infection. Osteoarthritis may also occur secondary to
overuse or for reasons that are not obvious. Two common causes of
osteoarthritis are joints that are heavily stressed by training and
competing in events such as racing or jumping. Bacteria may also
create an inflammatory response that leads to DJD.
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