Joint Health

Arthritis refers to inflammation or swelling in a joint. The cause can be abnormal bone or joint development, instability of the surrounding ligaments and tendons, damage or injury to the joint, an infection or injury caused by the immune system. While anti-inflammatory medicines are popular treatments for arthritis, another approach involves protecting the cartilage in the joint and “nourishing” the joint.

Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD), or arthritis, refers to inflammation or swelling in a joint.  DJD affects the smooth articular cartilage of the joint, covers the bone in the joints and is responsible for normal,  smooth, and non-painful motion. When the cartilage becomes worn, raw bone surfaces become exposed and make contact which causes pain and reduced. DJD may be caused by abnormal bone or joint development, injury to the joint, an infection, instability of surrounding ligaments and tendons, or an damage from the immune system. Although there are many anti-inflammatory treatments targeting arthritis and joint pain, a group of supplements that help to heal and maintain the health of joints has become very popular.  another approach involves protecting the cartilage in the joint and “nourishing” the joint.

Healthy cartilage is comprised of chondrocytes and a supporting matrix that is produced by the cartilage cells. DJD disrupts chondrocyte metabolism and alters the matrix structure. Glucosamine and chondroitin are  nutraceuticals that can be taken as a supplement to help provide the necessary nutrients for cartilage repair and function. Your veterinarian can assist you in determining the pest product for your dog, cat, or horse.  Popular brands include Cosequin, The Missing Link, Glyco-Flex, and Synovi.