Joint Health
Understanding joint structure, function, and health is a crucial part of keeping equine athletes performing at their best. Within joints the ends of bones are coated with articular cartilage so they slide smoothly over one another during movement. Joints are encapsulated in a fluid-filled sac called the joint capsule that protects the joint. The nutrient-rich synovial fluid is a vital component that fills the joint capsule to aid in smooth passage of one bone over another and to absorb shock from high-impact work.
To minimize wear and tear on joints and to prolong a useful and active life, extra nutritional joint support is recommended. Support of optimal joint health should be undertaken prophylactically, prior to evidence of damage, through the use of preparations developed to counteract inflammation, reduce cartilage damage, and stimulate cartilage repair. Well-known joint support compounds include glucosamine and sodium hyaluronate.
Glucosamine has a long history of use in joint supplements. Glucosamine is an amino sugar that is the vital precursor to the synthesis of collagen and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) in joint cartilage. Glucosamine can reduce GAG degradation and increase synthesis.
Sodium hyaluronate is a glycosaminoglycan that is an important structural component of joint fluid and is responsible for its viscosity or thickness. When fed orally, the molecular weight of the sodium hyaluronate preparation is important for both digestive absorption and promotion of synovial fluid viscosity.
Which Solution Is Right for Your Horse?
Glucos-A-Flex® Help maintain joint health for long term performance. Glucos-A-Flex contains a blend of glucosamine hydrochloride (HCl), vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants. This blend of nutrients is vital for cartilage and bone development, maintenance of elastic connective tissue, support of skin and mucous membranes, along with coat and hoof integrity.
Synovate HA® Premium joint supplement. Synovate HA delivers high molecular weight sodium hyaluronate in an easy-to-use liquid.
