Can Young Horses Get Arthritis? What Every Owner Needs to Know

Can young horses get arthritis?

When we think of arthritis in horses, we often associate it with older age and years of wear and tear. But a question I hear surprisingly often as a physiotherapist is: can young horses get arthritis too?

The short answer is yes - arthritis isn’t just a condition of older horses. And recognising it early can make a huge difference to your horse’s long-term soundness and comfort.

What is Arthritis in Horses?

Arthritis (most commonly osteoarthritis) is a condition where the joint becomes inflamed, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Over time, the cartilage within the joint can begin to wear down, affecting how smoothly the joint moves.

While age-related degeneration is a common cause, arthritis can also develop in younger horses for several reasons.

How Can Young Horses Develop Arthritis?

1. Previous Injury or Trauma

Joint injuries - such as knocks, strains, or more serious trauma - can trigger inflammation within the joint. Even if the horse appears to recover, this can lead to longer-term joint changes.

2. Developmental Orthopaedic Conditions

Young horses can experience conditions such as OCD (osteochondritis dissecans), where cartilage doesn’t form properly.

This can:

• Affect joint function early in life

• Increase the risk of arthritis developing sooner

3. Overwork at a Young Age

Pushing young horses too hard, too soon - especially before they are physically mature - can place excessive stress on developing joints. (you can join us for the "conditioning the young horse" lecture to find out more contact us directly 07842412830).

Examples include:

• Intense schooling too early

• Repetitive work on hard surfaces

• Insufficient rest periods

4. Poor Conformation

Some horses are naturally built in a way that places uneven stress on their joints. Over time, this can lead to wear and tear - even in younger horses.

5. Repetitive Strain

Even without obvious injury, repeated stress on the same joints (common in certain disciplines) can gradually lead to joint inflammation.

Signs of Arthritis in Young Horses

Because arthritis is less expected in younger horses, it’s often overlooked early on. Keep an eye out for:

• Subtle stiffness, especially when starting work

• Difficulty bending or working evenly on both reins

• Reluctance to go forward or engage

• Inconsistent performance

• Mild or intermittent lameness

• Resistance to transitions or certain movements

👉 These signs are often dismissed as “training issues” when they may actually be physical discomfort.

Can You Ride a Young Horse with Arthritis?

This depends on the severity and cause of the arthritis.

In some cases, yes:

• With early detection and proper management

• With a carefully structured exercise plan

• When work is appropriate for the horse’s condition

But caution is key:

Continuing to push a young horse through discomfort can worsen the condition and potentially shorten their ridden career.

👉 The goal is not just to keep them working now - but to protect their long-term soundness.

How to Manage Arthritis in Young Horses

Early intervention is everything. With the right approach, many horses can remain comfortable and active.

Physiotherapy

Regular physiotherapy can:

• Improve joint mobility

• Reduce compensatory muscle tension

• Support correct movement patterns

Appropriate Exercise

Movement is essential - but it needs to be the right kind:

• Gradual warm-ups

• Low-impact work

• Avoiding excessive repetition

Strength & Conditioning

Building the right muscles helps support the joints and reduce strain over time.

Veterinary Support

Working alongside your vet ensures accurate diagnosis and appropriate medical management where needed.

Management & Routine

Simple changes can make a big difference:

• Consistent exercise (rather than sporadic work)

• Turnout to prevent stiffness

• Attention to footing and surfaces

Final Thoughts

Arthritis isn’t just an “older horse problem.” Young horses can - and do - develop joint issues, often due to injury, workload, or developmental factors.

The earlier it’s recognised, the better the outcome. By addressing subtle signs early and putting the right management plan in place, you can help protect your horse’s comfort, performance, and future.

If you’ve noticed changes in your young horse’s movement or behaviour and aren’t sure what’s normal, it’s always worth getting them assessed.

👉 If you’d like support with your horse’s movement, comfort, or performance, feel free to get in touch to see how physiotherapy can help.