Dr. Ann Rashmir-Raven, an equine surgeon at MSU, said horses can get arthritis in any joint. Progress has been made in treating arthritis, but it remains the leading cause for horses not being able to perform as intended. Many good drugs and surgery techniques have been developed for treating arthritis. Arthritis can still be limiting, but with mild to moderate cases, and even some severe cases, there's a lot we can do to keep the horse active for many more years. Rashmir said horses most commonly get arthritis in their front legs, but hind leg and necks can also be affected.
Arthritis is possible in shoulders and elbows, but uncommon.
Veterinarians often test for arthritis in horses by using nerve blocking. This procedure uses shots to anesthetize portions of the leg, starting with the heel and moving up. When the horse no longer limps, the arthritis has been localized. Using ultrasound, X-rays or fluid samples, veterinarians determine the extent of problem, and treatment follows with drugs or surgery. Drugs reduce inflammation, relieve pain and can rejuvenate the joint.