Arthritis/Degenerative Joint Disease

Arthritis, Degenerative Joint Disease & Joint Issues Protocol

Protocol:

Begin with the Basics Course to learn proper tape handling, stretch, and technique. Use the Applications Library joint-specific applications based on the affected area (e.g., Hock Support, Stifle Support, Fetlock Support, Carpus/Knee Support, SI Support). For more advanced or severe cases, combine joint support protocols with the Circulation application for enhanced relief. For DSLD cases, use the Lower Leg Injuries Application.

Tape Type:

• 4-Way - 2" (recommended for all joint support applications)

• 2-Way - 3" (for Circulation applications)

• 4-Way - 3” (recommended for many joint support applications when specified - the Stifle; SI support for larger breeds)

When to Use:

• For horses diagnosed with arthritis, degenerative joint disease (DSLD), or other joint issues (always after veterinary assessment for confirmed diagnosis)

• As part of a long-term management or recovery plan alongside veterinary and farrier care, appropriate exercise, and joint-friendly living (avoid hard surfaces as much as possible)

• To support joint stability, reduce inflammation, decrease pain, and promote a healing environment

How Long to Tape:

• For joint injuries, use until the horse has fully healed.

• For DSLD, DJD, and arthritis: use for 10–12 weeks initially to fully remove swelling and promote soft tissue healing, joint capsule healing, and fascia health. Use the Lower Leg Injuries Application.

• After the initial period, use the applications as needed during uncomfortable inflammatory flare-ups (such as with arthritis/OA).

• Once the disease has progressed far enough, especially in DSLD, use continuously.

• Reapply the tape when it loses its recoil, becomes loose, or collects debris underneath.

• 4-Way tape needs to be reapplied after 7 days. Make sure to clean the skin underneath before re-application. 

• 2-Way tape can remain for as long as the tape is recoiling.

For Chronic Cases:

For ongoing arthritis, DJD, or chronic joint issues, it is recommended to use the joint support and Circulation applications continuously during flare-ups and throughout the management period. Reapply as needed, and coordinate with your veterinarian and farrier for ongoing care.

Management Note:

• Provide regular, moderate exercise suited to the horse’s fitness and comfort level

• Avoid hard or uneven footing; use deep bedding and turnout on soft ground

• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint stress

• Work closely with your farrier for optimal hoof balance

• Consider good-quality joint support supplements

Clinical Reasoning:

This protocol increases blood flow to affected joints, reduces deep inflammation, and helps relieve pain. Joint support applications stabilize the joint and decrease stress on damaged cartilage, ligaments, tendons, joint capsule, and soft tissues, providing the optimal healing environment, while the Circulation application further enhances healing, reducing inflammation and increasing comfort in chronic or severe cases.