Elbow Joint

Horses bear 60% of their body weight in their front limbs, thus elbow health is essential. For normal elbow function, all of the bones (humerus, radius, and ulna) of the joint must align. Problems in the horse’s elbow often stem from trauma: humerus and olecranon (tip of the elbow) fractures after being kicked or falling. Horses with elbow pain often do not bear weight on the affected limb; the elbow may appear dropped in position. A healthy body weight is the best insurance to minimize joint inflammation in your horse. Anti-inflammatory medications, nutritional supplements, physical therapy, and/or surgery may be recommended by your veterinarian to keep your horse’s elbow joints strong and mobile.