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- > Horses: Damage to articular cartilage in horses 2
Damage to articular cartilage in horses – regenerative therapies
Introduction
Damage to articular cartilage in horses is a common cause of pain, lameness, and decreased athletic performance. It can result from injury, training overload, congenital defects, or as part of osteoarthritis. Since cartilage has no blood supply, its natural ability to regenerate is limited, which means that conventional treatment methods are not sufficient.
Symptoms of tendon and ligament damage:
- lameness worsening after exercise,
- stiffness and limited range of motion,
- pain when putting weight on the joint,
- swelling around the joint,
- decline in athletic performance, reluctance to move.
Standard treatment
The traditional approach includes NSAIDs, cartilage-supporting supplements, intra-articular injections (hyaluronic acid, steroids), and physical therapy. These methods alleviate symptoms but do not lead to cartilage regeneration.
Modern biological therapies
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC)
MSCs demonstrate the ability to differentiate into chondrocytes and secrete factors that support cartilage regeneration. This is currently the most effective method of repairing cartilage defects in horses. They are used in moderate to severe cases of damage.
👉 Check out how mesenchymal stem cells work
PRP – platelet-rich plasma
PRP provides growth factors that improve the joint environment and stimulate repair processes. It can be used in early cartilage damage and as support in recovery after injuries.
Therapy IL-1
In cases of chronic joint inflammation, the use of IL-1 helps reduce inflammation and relieve pain by supporting the action of MSCs and PRP.
👉 Learn more about IL-1 therapy and pain treatment
Step-by-step approach
- Stage 1 – minor damage: PRP to improve the microenvironment of the joint and support regeneration.
- Stage 2 – moderate and extensive cartilage defects: MSC as the main method of cartilage reconstruction.
- Stage 3 – advanced changes: IL-1 + MSC, and if necessary, surgical procedures in combination with biological therapies.
Introduction
Damage to articular cartilage in horses is a serious orthopedic problem that limits the animal's performance and sporting career. Standard methods treat the symptoms, while modern biological therapies—PRP, MSC, and IL-1—support actual cartilage regeneration and enable a return to activity.
FAQ
No – its ability to regenerate is minimal, which is why biological therapies are needed.
In initial damage, yes, but in moderate and severe cases, MSCs are necessary.
Long-term improvement in joint function, reduction in pain and partial restoration of cartilage.
Yes, especially in advanced cases, to reduce inflammation and improve the horse's comfort.