Most Popular Joint Supplements
Barn managers consistently recommend three go-to joint supplements that deliver results in both prevention and daily care. Below are the most popular joint supplements at Corro:
These top-sellers stand out because horses not only eat them willingly but also show clear benefits in comfort and performance.
What Causes Joint Issues in Horses?
In simple terms, joint issues in horses are basically degenerative or inflammatory conditions affecting the cartilage, synovial fluid, and supporting structures of the joint. Over time, wear and tear can impair lubrication and shock absorption, leading to stiffness or lameness.
Corro Team Rider Ashlee Bond (International Show Jumping) explains that repeated impacts from landing after big fences put extra stress on her horses’ hocks and stifles.
Similarly, Josh Tishman (Reining) notes that the hard stops and spins of reining demand consistent joint protection.
Their insight highlights how discipline-specific stresses speed up the need for proactive joint care.
How Joint Supplements Can Help
A study published in the American Journal of Veterinary Research (2002) found that oral glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate improved synovial fluid quality and reduced cartilage degradation in exercised horses.
Another equine study reported that MSM supplementation reduced oxidative stress and inflammation in equine joints.
Together, these findings support the use of glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM in maintaining healthy cartilage, reducing inflammation, and supporting long-term mobility in athletic and aging horses.
Choosing the Right Joint Supplement
The right joint supplement depends on your horse’s workload, age, and current joint health.
Senior horses often benefit from higher levels of glucosamine and chondroitin (see our Senior Horse Supplements for more options), while younger or lightly worked horses may do well with MSM-based maintenance blends.
Performance horses in heavy training need advanced combinations with hyaluronic acid for extra joint cushioning. Always consider workload and long-term goals when choosing the right product.
- Performance horses → Advanced multi-ingredient blends
- Senior horses → Higher glucosamine/chondroitin support
- Everyday maintenance → MSM-focused formulas
Rider Tips
Hunter Holloway (Show Jumper): Chooses liquid joint support for fast absorption, especially during intense show schedules.
Shayna Simon (Dressage): Prefers pellet supplements that mix easily with daily feed, making it simple to keep support consistent through long training sessions.
Nick Haness (Hunter/Jumper): Selects affordable MSM options to keep multiple horses comfortable while staying practical for a large barn program.
Safety & Warranty Validation
All supplements in this collection are made under NASC (National Animal Supplement Council) guidelines, ensuring quality and label accuracy.
Independent veterinarians within the AAEP provide clinical consensus on safe usage of key joint ingredients.
Plus, many products meet USEF compliance for competition, giving riders peace of mind in regulated environments.
Manufacturers also stand behind their formulas with product guarantees, ensuring both safety and satisfaction for horses of all levels.
FAQ
What ingredients are most effective in joint supplements for horses?
Glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, and hyaluronic acid are the most researched and widely used for equine joint health.
How long before results are seen with joint supplements?
Most horses show improvements in mobility and comfort within 4–6 weeks of consistent use.
Can joint supplements be used for young horses?
Yes, lighter formulations with MSM or hyaluronic acid can support developing joints in young or starting horses.
Are joint supplements safe for competition horses?
Yes, NASC-approved supplements are formulated to comply with USEF and FEI competition regulations.
Do joint supplements replace veterinary care?
No, supplements support joint health but don’t replace diagnostics or treatment prescribed by a veterinarian.
What form of joint supplement is easiest to feed?
Powders and pellets mix well with feed, while liquids are favored for fast absorption.
