When we consider the lifestyle and utilisation of horses by humans for either recreation or participation in competitive sports, it is important to recognise those elements of the body which may need extra attention. Nature is amazing in that it has refined the development of man and animals so that they can grow, reproduce, complete their life cycle and maintain their status quo when eating satisfactory nutritional resources.

In the equine field, when a feed company that sells horse food registers their product with the regulatory authority – Act 36/1947 – they are required to supply details concerning how their products are formulated. The regulatory authority requires that the company must supply a label for their product which is approved by the authority. This label requires the declaration of certain specific nutrients as follows:

Complete Feed (As per Act 36)

Under normal conditions, where there is not excessive strain placed on the body through performance, the body can replace and repair most tissues as long as the animal is consuming a complete and balanced feed. However, under performance conditions, this increases stress as well as the amount of repair and maintenance inside the body for the animal to continue competing. Under these circumstances, complete feeds are often supplemented by additional nutrients provided to competitive horses.

Supplements

• Energy
• Proteins
• Amino Acids
• Vitamins
• Herbs
• Probiotics
• Electrolytes
• Antacids
• Plant Extracts
• Fat
• Antioxidants
• Nutriceuticals
• Non-protein Nitrogen

Some supplements are combinations of the above ingredients, while others are specific (e.g., vitamins). For horses in competitive sports, nutritional requirements change. Examples of normal versus performance horses are listed below:

Normal horses typically derive sufficient nutrition from complete feeds, though breeding animals (especially pregnant mares) have increased requirements. Performance horses, on the other hand, place significant strain on their skeletal structures due to their physical activities.

Joints and Tendons

A particular area of the locomotor system subjected to pressure during performance is the joints and tendons. These structures consist of collagen and cartilage. Cartilage is a connective tissue composed of mucopolysaccharides (e.g. chondroitin sulphate), protein substances, calcium, sulphur, and collagen. Collagen, found in most connective tissues including cartilage, bone, and skin, is vital for structural strength.

Gelatin is a form of collagen commonly used in foods, and reports suggest that consuming gelatin can improve the structure and health of hair and hooves.

Both joints and tendons have limited blood supply, which makes healing slower. Treatments for injuries to these structures often involve direct injections, as systemic treatments do not penetrate well. Recovery usually requires rest and/or controlled exercise.

To assist in the repair and maintenance of injured joints or tendons, treatments may include:

• Rest
• Massage – to increase blood circulation
• Electrical stimulation – to improve circulation
• Anti-inflammatory treatments – such as alternating hot and cold water therapy

Swelling in joints or tendons is often accompanied by pain and results from fluid accumulation. If infections occur, antimicrobial treatment directly into the affected area may be necessary. Veterinary treatments typically include anti-inflammatories.

Nutrients for Joint Repair and Maintenance

Specific nutrients that contribute to repair and maintenance include chondroitin sulphate, glucosamine, and MSM.

These are also found in high-quality pet foods that often include antioxidants, dental-care enhancers, and immune stimulants. This demonstrates the importance of these nutrients across species.

Chondroitin Sulphate

Chondroitin sulphate consists of repeating chains of molecules called glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). It is a major constituent of cartilage and rich in sulphur. The primary crude sources are animal cartilage, particularly shark or bovine cartilage. Although the body synthesises chondroitin, increased pressure on joints and tendons raises the need for supplementation. In humans, about 12% of oral chondroitin sulphate becomes available to joint tissues.

Glucosamine

Glucosamine is a key building block used by the body to create glycosaminoglycans. It is usually derived from shrimp, lobster, and crab shells, or manufactured synthetically. It exists in various forms, including glucosamine sulphate and glucosamine hydrochloride. Of these, glucosamine sulphate is clinically proven to be effective for osteoarthritis. It is smaller and more water-soluble than chondroitin.

Methyl-Sulphonyl-Methane (MSM)

MSM is a naturally occurring, organic, sulphur-containing compound related to DMSO, known for enhancing absorption through the skin. MSM is found throughout nature and in trace amounts in the blood and urine. Studies have shown that sulphur from MSM supplements is incorporated into body proteins. Research also shows that joints affected by osteoarthritis have lower sulphur content, and animals given MSM show less joint deterioration.

Stride Distributors Formulations

Stride Distributors CC markets two formulations that include chondroitin sulphate, glucosamine sulphate, and MSM:

• Rigly Gluco Lube – a water-based solution containing chondroitin sulphate and glucosamine sulphate.
• Rigly MSM Plus – a water-based gel that contains MSM plus four herbs.

Both products are palatable to horses and convenient to dose.

References

The Natural Pharmacy, 3rd Edition, Three Rivers Press, New York

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