Hyaluronic Acid; an essential component for fluid and comfortable joints
Let’s talk Hyaluronic Acid or HA as it’s commonly known, after all it’s an essential player in joint health. Be it human or animal, this complicated sounding acid has one simple objective; to keep joints resilient and moving smoothly. Here’s the science behind it.
HA is a major component of synovial fluid, the thick lubricating fluid found in the cavities of synovial joints such as hips, shoulders, knees and elbows. Its primary function is to reduce friction between the articular cartilage in these joints during movement, helping the cartilage remain resilient and intact for long term, comfortable movement. If this cartilage breaks down, humans and animals experience joint conditions which leave joints stiff, swollen and in pain – unwanted discomforts which can worsen over time.
When it comes to our dogs specifically, studies have shown that HA can help manage common conditions such as canine osteoarthritis. In one particular case, 75% of owners who enrolled their dogs in a HA study, considered the quality of life of their animals after treatment to be very good to excellent. This is an incredible feat, considering just how impactful canine osteoarthritis can be.
While joint care is the primary benefit of HA, it is also a major component of the skin, particularly when it comes to tissue repair and inflammation response. So not only is it keeping us and our pets moving, it’s also protecting our skin during whatever adventure we may be on.
When should I supplement my dog’s diet with Hyaluronic Acid?
HA is found in all vertebrate tissues and body fluids as well as some bacteria. It is synthesised, meaning the body creates its own, however that process degrades over time and as bodies grow older they make less HA. This is why joints typically suffer in old-age. Keeping levels of HA topped up is therefore incredibly important for joint health, especial as our pooches gracefully grow old.
We also recommend a HA supplement for hardworking performance and sport animals, whose joints are under intense stress on a regular basis. HA not only offers lubrication for the joints but also acts as a shock-absorber for the surrounding tissues. In young working dogs with strenuous exercise routines, a HA supplement can help prevent lameness and improve joint fluidity, so they can comfortably perform at their best.
OM K9 Flexology
Well with all that knowledge, we knew HA had to be a key feature in our canine joint care product; it seems irresponsible not to include it. Our incredible OM K9 Flexology supplement, combines HA with three other pillars of joint health; glucosamine, methyl sulphonyl methane (MSM) and Boswellia. Together these four ingredients provide complete joint care, keeping joints strong whilst also maintaining the surrounding muscles, ligaments, tissues, cartilage and fluids. We all love our pooches and this supplement has them playing and performing at their best in complete comfort. Pick up your pot today.