28 August 2008 08:56
My 15hh cob mare was diagnosed with Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD) in her right foreleg. After a course of Adequan injections and putting her on Cortaflex, she came sound and has been lightly hacked. I’d like to know how long the effects of the Adequan will last, if I can repeat the injections, and should I keep on with the Cortaflex? She’s always been very heavy on her feet, so might that have predisposed her to the DJD?
Answer
By Your Horse
Vet Mark Lingard replies:
The affects of the Adequan last a variable length of time depending on how bad the DJD is, and which joint is affected – you don’t specify which joint in your letter.
It is possible to repeat courses of Adequan injections, and I think it’d be beneficial to keep on giving her the Cortaflex. It will promote any possible healing within the joint and decrease the amount of painkillers necessary in the future.
It is possible that being heavy on her feet could have brought about the degenerative disease. You must control her weight and stop her becoming overweight – this is very important in reducing the onset of further arthritis. Find the level of exercise she’s comfortable with and then stick to this, if possible, seven days a week.