One of the most difficult things that horse owners go through is founder in horses. Also referred to as laminitis, it is a painful infection that involves the hooves, and may have lasting effects unless it is treated. Founder horses are usually in pain, stiff, and immobile.Veterinary treatment, hoof care, and proper feeding are the most critical components of recovery, but joint health is also significant in getting horses up on their feet. Here is where joint supplements such as Optiwize horse joint supplement come in.
Here we are going to deconstruct what founder is, its impact on a horse body, and how joint supplements can promote healing in simple and easy-to-understand terms.
Laminitis occurs when the soft tissues within the hoof (known as laminae) get inflamed. These tissues join the hoof wall to the coffin bone in the middle of the hoof. In severe cases of inflammation, there is a possibility that the coffin bone may rot or sink leading to extreme pain.
Eating excessively of grain or of green grass.
Obesity and metabolic issues like Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS)
Excess weight or stress on the hooves
Illness, infection, or high fever
Hard work on rough or hard ground
Lameness is the primary indicator of founder. Horses can stand in an awkward position, move frequently, or not move at all due to the pain. What most owners do not know is that founder does not only impact the hooves, it also causes stress to the joints, muscles and tendons.
A horse that is sore in the hooves will automatically alter its position or movement to prevent pain. Other problems can arise as a result of this compensating:
Joint strain: Joints in the knees, hocks, and fetlocks take more pressure.
Fatigue in muscles: Muscles become fatigued more quickly when they have to support additional weight.
Inequalities in wear: Poor posture puts stress on joints in an uneven manner.
Long-term stiffness: Continuous pain results in horses being less active, which can lead to stiffness.
That is why it is so essential to support each other in the process of recovery. Although the hoof is the part that is affected by the founder, the entire body is affected. A proper supplement, such as Optiwize horse joint supplement, can be added to protect the joints and make the horse more comfortable during the healing process.
Joint supplements do not cure founder but they may help a horse recover more easily and comfortably. In simple terms, they assist in the following way:
Founder is a disease of inflammation. Inflammation in the body can be reduced with the help of supplements such as MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) and natural herbs. Reduced inflammation is reduced pain and increased comfort.
When horses alter their locomotion due to the pain in the hooves, cartilage, tendons, and ligaments are overstrained. These tissues are protected and repaired by ingredients such as glucosamine, chondroitin and collagen. This maintains the strength of the joints as the hooves recover.
Recovery depends on good circulation. Some supplements contain omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants that help to increase blood flow, which transports nutrients and oxygen to the injured tissues. Improved blood circulation aids in the faster recovery of both joints and hooves.
Supplements with hyaluronic acid support joint lubrication. This makes the horse move more easily and decreases stiffness. A horse that moves freely will be more active and this will aid in circulation and healing as well.
A horse that is not well handled can revert to founder. Continued supplementation will ensure that joints and connective tissues remain healthy, reducing the chances of additional issues in the future.
Not every supplement is made the same. Optiwize horse joint supplement is developed to specifically address the needs of horses that experience joint stress, pain, and other conditions such as founder.
Benefits of Optiwize include:
A complete formula with glucosamine, chondroitin, collagen, and MSM
Natural pain and swelling relievers that are anti-inflammatory.
Circulation and tissue repair ingredients.
Safe to use daily, high absorption so your horse can get the most benefit.
When Optiwize is added to the care routine of many owners, mobility, comfort, and recovery speed have been observed to improve significantly.
Supplements are most effective in conjunction with other key components of founder recovery. Here’s a simple plan:
Vet Care: You should never ignore there commendations of your veterinarian.
Hoof Trimming: Frequent trimming or remedial shodding assists in relieving the pressure on the hooves.
Diet Control: Limit sugar and starch in the diet, and focus on balanced nutrition.
Weight Management:Keep your horse at a healthy weight to reduce stress on hooves and joints.
Light Movement: Light exercise is recommended after your vet has cleared you and helps to improve blood circulation and aid in recovery.
Daily Supplement: Use Optiwize horse joint supplement to protect joints and connective tissues
You provide your horse with the best opportunity to recover more smoothly and live a healthier life by supporting the hooves and the joints.