The effect weather changes have on those living with chronic conditions like arthritis, is an idea that has divided general opinion for years. Horses with arthritis may not have a voice, but could there be truth to the supposed myth?
There seems to be enough evidence to disregard the connection. On the other hand, first-hand experience of an increase in pain shared by thousands of people, has to carry some weight.
Horse owners may attest to seeing these signs in their horses during spells of bad weather:
· Decreased activity or mobility
· Stiffness or decreased joint movement
· Heat and swelling in limbs
· Signs of pain
· Lameness
Is there a scientific explanation behind this occurrence?
The accepted school of thought seems to be that the greatest change in pain levels is noticed when there is a change in relative humidity and wind speed, while temperature itself does not seem to have a notable effect.
The reasoning behind this is that when bad weather moves in, the barometric pressure drops. This is the air pressure all around the body and joints. When this pressure decreases, the synovial fluid that lines and lubricates the joints, can now expand, placing pressure on the joints. This causes irritation and pain as the tissue swells and inflammation occurs.
Is there a solution?
Arthritis causes long term inflammation and damage to the joints and may hurt for as long as the inflammation is present.
Acute medical intervention in the form of steroid injections into your horse’s affected joints, may prove helpful.
However, supporting the horse’s own anti-inflammatory response over the long run, may be a more sustainable and holistic approach.
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