Synovitis, an inflammation of the synovial membrane, is a common injury that affects many horses, especially those in heavy work or competition, and if not treated quickly can have severe consequences for the future wellbeing and soundness of the horse. It often occurs in conjunction with Capsulitis, which is inflammation of the joint capsule.
To understand Synovitis, a basic understanding of a synovial joint is required. A synovial joint is any moveable connection between two bones. Some of the best known are knee, fetlock, coffin, and hock. This joint is designed to allow for frictionless movement and absorbing concussion. The ends of the bone are covered in articular cartilage which allows them to glide against each other, and the joint is enclosed by a capsule with the synovial membrane, which produces synovial fluid to lubricate and cushion the joint. Because of the nature of the horse’s movement, these joints will receive some stress anytime they move, but under heavy work, the wear and tear can cause some serious problems.
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When a joint is injured, the body’s first defense mechanism is inflammation of the area to provide protection and help start the healing process. Sometimes though, there are side effects of the inflammation. Inside the joint capsule, when it becomes inflamed, the extra fluid makes the synovial fluid balance to be off, and the hyaluronic acid may become watery and dilute. Inflammation may also cause free radical agents to be released into the joint from the synovial membrane, which will actually attack the articular cartilage. If these are not checked, they can lead to osteoarthritis. Synovitis can be caused by direct injury, as a side effect of a joint disease, infection or be influenced by conformation. A horse with poor conformation that doesn’t allow for ideal shock absorption is more likely to have Synovitis