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 the problem, and treatment follows with drugs or surgery.
Drugs reduce inflammation, relieve pain and can rejuvenate the joint.
The Sunday Patriot-News of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania carried a story on April 20 by Monica von Dobeneck about the decision of Pennsylvania State Game Commission to close all but one trail in the gamelands near Mount Gretna. The Gretna gamelands were becoming too popular, and the result was environmental damage, said Gregory Grabowiecz, director of land management for the commission, which held hearings last week. Hunters must be given priority, he said. But horse riders and mountain bikers say the amount of damage is exaggerated. Bill Gentle, owner of Mount Gretna Mountain Bikes, commissioned his own study by Benatec Engineering of Camp Hill, Pennsylvania.