Supporting Joint Health and Performance in Horses

Joint conditions and soft-tissue injuries can affect a horse's comfort, movement, and performance. Arthrex Vet Systems provides biologic treatment options designed to support healing and help manage inflammation and pain, helping horses return to comfortable activity.

Understanding Arthritis in Horses

Healthy joints allow horses to move freely and perform at their best. Osteoarthritis, frequently called arthritis, is a common condition that develops gradually over time as the protective cartilage within a joint deteriorates.
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As these structural changes occur, movement can become uncomfortable and lead to:

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Stiffness during movement
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Changes in stride or performance
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Sensitivity in affected joints
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Reduced willingness to train or work
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Early evaluation can help identify joint changes and guide appropriate treatment to support long‑term comfort and mobility.

Biologic Treatments for Arthritis in Horses

Biologic treatment uses a horse's own blood to reduce pain and inflammation while supporting the body's natural healing process in joint and soft-tissue injuries. These treatments are commonly used to help maintain a horse's peak performance.
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Arthrex ACP® System
Delivers concentrated platelets and growth factors to support joint health and tissue repair1
ACP Max™ System
Provides a platelet‑rich preparation designed for use as part of a structured rehabilitation program2
IRAP ProEAS™ System
Produces a natural protein called interleukin-1 receptor antagonist protein (IRAP) that helps block inflammatory signals within the joint3

Clinical Studies on ACP and IRAP in Horses

Biologic treatments such as autologous conditioned plasma (ACP) and IRAP use a horse's own blood components and have been studied for their potential to support joint health, manage inflammation, and aid recovery from soft-tissue injuries. The findings below highlight select outcomes from research involving ACP and IRAP treatments.
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42 Days
Inflammatory proteins reduced toward normal levels4
70 Days
Improved lameness after IRAP treatment5
6.4×
Higher platelet concentration than whole blood6

Recovery After Joint Treatment in Horses

Recovery in horses focuses on restoring comfortable movement, managing inflammation, and supporting a gradual return to activity. A structured rehabilitation plan guided by your veterinarian plays an important role in long‑term success. Recovery typically includes:

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Initial rest to support early healing

Controlled movement as healing progresses

Structured rehabilitation and conditioning

See Real Stories of Recovery

Every horse’s recovery is unique. See how real horses have returned to comfortable movement and performance with the support of advanced treatment options and structured rehabilitation.
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