Natural Support for Hock & Stifle Problems in Horses
Hock and Stifle problems in horses, revolve around the central lower and upper rear-leg joints. They bear, not only a majority of horse and rider weight, but they are subject to the brunt of all the abuse that comes from pushing off for propulsion. This also includes the demands of extended running or trotting. In general, you have more severe needs involved in jumping or twisting activities such as barrel racing and calf roping. No wonder that these joints are especially susceptible to injury, trauma, or wear.
Once any such damage is done, lameness is expected due to the pain and inflammation. Complex activities like; quick turns, pivot maneuvers, sudden stops, and sudden acceleration can affect any horse. The Hock joint is located near the Achilles tendon, which can add increased opportunity for injury or trauma.
The Hock
The hocks are a vital part of your horse’s hindquarters driving mechanism. Actions such as work at collected gaits or jumping require extra hind-end effort. This is especially tough on these hard-working joints. Tight turns and small circles are pressure points to the hock. They can apply a twisting force, causing pain or soreness. With miles and time ground working or under saddle, the joints can break down and cause hock problems.
A horse with hock pain will typically point the rear leg and place it under the body. This is done, especially if the pain is toward the inside of the hock. Early signs of hock issues can be very subtle and can creep up gradually.
- May have an on-again-off-again or intermittent lameness.
- Noticeable heat or swelling in the leg at the joint.
- Horses can start stiff but seem to “work it out” as they warm up.
- Going downhill or backing off a trailer may be something that they resist doing.
The Stifle
The stifle joint is remarkably similar to the human knee. When picking up a horse’s hind leg, the stifle joint bends forward, just as a person’s knee does when climbing stairs. This back leg joint is one of the largest and most complex in the horse’s entire body.
A horse that is stifle-sore can show performance concerns when riding. The horse may exhibit stiffness or resistance to picking up a particular lead. They may offer an unwillingness to go up or down hills, swaying to one side when jumping. In more severe cases, bucking to evacuate the rider from their back due to pain may be an issue. When working in a circle, such as lunging, you may see the problem appear more readily outside the ring. When stifle issues are present, the horse will rest the more painful leg and be more comfortable standing with the stifle joint rotated to the outside.
Recommended Therapies
Equine Chiropractic and/or Acupuncture treatments for hock or stifle issues are a widely popular practice. Although, as in most therapies, there are well-trained people and some not-so-good ones.
Make sure to get some recommendations from others that have had success.
Natural Support for Hock and Stifle Joints
The Superfood protein found in our Sprouted Granules enables the Equine body to produce a series of natural metabolic enzymes. These antioxidants include Superoxide Dismutase and its partner, Catalase, plus Glutathione Peroxidase and Methionine Reductase. Their primary role is in maintaining cellular health by removing toxic build-up and cleansing free radicals. Healthy cells are the foundation for good health. When the cells are healthy and thriving, healing and repair issues can be advanced. Inflammation and stiffness can be managed. Increased energy can be released, and general overall health will be promoted. We believe the Superfood Granules are the best way to promote effective and speedy recovery for any horse suffering under these conditions.
In supporting enhanced enzyme functionality, we have a solid history of success with the Nzymes® Sprouted Granules. This natural alternative is an adequate answer to serious mobility issues involving horses’ hock and stifle problems. Therefore, we feel this product is the best possible and all-natural response to providing help for your horse.
Recommended Therapies
Equine Chiropractic and/or Acupuncture treatments for hock or stifle issues are a widely popular practice. Although, as in most therapies, there are well-trained people and some not-so-good ones. Make sure to get some recommendations from others that have had success.