Complete Guide to Managing Equine Arthritis | Real Rider Resource by Draw It Out®

The Real Rider’s Guide to Managing Equine Arthritis

Excerpt: Arthritis in horses doesn’t mean the end of riding—it means it’s time to ride smarter. In this Real Rider Resource from Draw It Out®, we break down the signs, causes, and real-world strategies for managing equine arthritis with confidence. From daily routines to must-have products, this guide is built for riders who want to keep their horses comfortable, sound, and in the game for years to come.

“Just Getting Old” Ain’t Good Enough

Your horse starts taking longer to warm up. The ride’s still there—but it’s not as smooth. Let’s call it what it is: arthritis. And the good news? You can manage it. This guide is written for real riders who put in the work and love their horses like family.

What Is Equine Arthritis?

Also known as osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease, arthritis is the breakdown of cartilage in a joint. It commonly affects the hocks, stifles, fetlocks, coffin joints, and pasterns. It’s chronic and progressive, but with the right care, manageable.

How to Spot the Early Signs

  • Slow to warm up or cool down
  • Stiffness after rest
  • Short strides, toe dragging
  • Reluctance to collect or turn
  • Swelling or heat in joints
  • Behavior changes (girthy, sour under saddle)

What Causes It?

  • Conformation flaws
  • Previous injuries or trauma
  • Hard work on hard ground
  • Poor hoof angles
  • Aging and genetics

How to Manage Equine Arthritis (Day to Day)

Topical Support

Oral Support

Look for supplements with MSM, glucosamine, hyaluronic acid, turmeric. Keep sugar low for metabolic horses.

Smart Movement

Consistent, low-impact work like walking hills or long trotting. Movement is medicine.

Bodywork & Recovery

Farrier Work

Balanced trimming and proper angles are essential. Talk to your farrier about support shoes if needed.

What NOT to Do

  • Let your horse sit with no movement
  • Overuse NSAIDs like bute
  • Ride without proper warm-up or cool-down
  • Neglect hoof care
  • Dismiss new stiffness as “just lazy”

Real Rider Arthritis Toolkit

  • Draw It Out® Gel
  • MasterMudd™ EquiBrace™
  • SilverHoof EQ Therapy®
  • Topical cooling products
  • Joint support supplements
  • Balanced saddle fit and hoof care

You Can’t Stop Time. But You Can Slow the Damage.

Every horse ages—but arthritis doesn’t have to mean the end. With the right plan, real riders can keep their partners sound, happy, and doing what they love. Draw It Out® is here for every step of that ride.

“Because when they give you their all, you owe them everything.”

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Where to go next

If this topic connects to what you’re seeing in your horse, these are the most common next steps.

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