b'OA: EARLY INTERVENTIONbone surface interface, Oakley says, and is much more sensitive than X ray for detecting osteophytes (bone spurs).Also, dont limit soundness exams solely to when problems are brewing, says Moretta. When we do periodic performance exams, we look for subclini-cal (not observable) changes, she says. We can use motion palpation to screen SHELLEY PAULSONfor very subtle lameness problems when doing periodic evaluations.She says she uses the diagnostic subtle movement or muscle changes to dictate treatment and help prevent long-term and potentially career-ending lameness downIntra-articular injections, such as with corticosteroids and hyaluronic acid, can be highly effective the road. anti-inflammatory treatments, but repeated use in high-motion joints can have some side effects.A Multimodal Treatment Approach budgets, they might suggest: Keeping horses moving helps reduce Early osteoarthritis treatment andShoeing changes A balanced, stable,inflammation, maintain a healthy weight, management should include evaluatingand supported foot can help reduce jointdecrease stiffness, and encourage slow, lifestyle factors that affect your horsestrauma. steady muscle development for overall way of going, our sources say. Veterinar- Weight management Preventing horsesstrength. Finding the type of activity that ians then have various tools they canfrom becoming overweight also reduceshelps maintain tone but does not exacer-recommend to address the condition.the load-bearing on their joints.bate the OA is the key, says Moretta.Depending on their clients goals andTurnout and light, consistent exerciseScience-backed nutraceuticals (oral supplements) Remember, there are no FDA regulations on the equine supple-ment industry, says Moretta, who recom-mends owners purchase from respected companies using ingredients supported by research. Supplements designed to support joint health might contain glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and hyaluronic acid, among other ingredients. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as phenylbutazone, firocoxib, and diclofenac sodium topical cream These can be very helpful for long-term management of osteoarthritis, Oak-ley says, noting that firocoxib produces fewer gastrointestinal side effects than phenylbutazone. Intravenous and intramuscular treat-ments formulated to minimize joint degeneration Polysulfated glycosamino-glycan and hyaluronate sodium can be very helpful, says Oakley, who finds that some horses respond better to one than Remember with all medications, therapies, and modalities: If you compete, read your rulebook, contact your organization for infor-mation regarding regulations, and work with your veterinarian to stay within applicable rules.18January 2020The Horse|TheHorse.comOsteoarthritis USE.indd 18 12/4/19 10:28 AM'