The effects of three-month oral supplementation with a nutraceutical and exercise on the locomotor pattern of aged horses.

This study evaluates the effect of a three-month oral supplementation program combined with exercise on the movement function of old horses. The supplement includes glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate and methyl sulfonyl methane, which have shown anti-inflammatory effects. Despite showing promise in lab tests, the research concludes these supplements do not produce significant improvement in horses’ gait characteristics.

Objective and Method

The objective of the study was to determine whether a nutritional supplement could improve the joint stiffness often observed in older horses. The researchers undertook a randomized, blinded, and placebo-controlled investigation. They selected 24 aged horses for the study and gave either the test supplement or a placebo for three months.

• A number of kinematic outcomes were observed and quantified, both before and post-treatment. These outcomes included stride length, carpal flexion, fore fetlock extension, and tarsal range of motion.
• The horses were required to perform these movements on a treadmill at varying paces, either walking or trotting.

Results and Conclusion

After the trial period, the researchers did not observe any significant change in stride length in the horses given the supplement. In the control group, horses showed significant increased in carpal flexion and fore fetlock extension.

• The conclusion drawn was that the supplement showed no substantial effect on the horses’ locomotion function.
• The researchers suggested that the observed improvements in the control group might be the result of habituation or the effects of exercise.
• The study does not hence support the use of glucosamine/chondroitin sulfate/methyl sulfonyl methane supplement to improve stiff gait in older horses due to lack of substantial effect.
• However, it showcases the benefits of exercise as a potential treatment measure for the same, as indicated by the improvements seen in the control group.