Supporting an Older Horse with Stiffness: Mr Bean’s Story
Noticing stiffness as horses get older
If you share your life with an older horse, you may start to notice small changes that weren’t there before. One of the most common is stiffness, particularly when they first move off after standing. It can be subtle at first, but over time it often becomes part of daily management.
In this Spotlight, Michele shares her experience with her horse, Mr Bean, and how she looked for gentle, practical ways to support his comfort as he aged.
Meet Mr Bean
Mr Bean is a 15hh, nineteen-year-old cob cross who has been with Michele for twelve years. Over that time, they have enjoyed a varied and active partnership, including showing, unaffiliated showjumping, and dressage.
And alongside his work ethic, he is also very much part of the family.
As Michele explains:
“My boy is called Mr Bean. He’s 15hh, 19 years old and a cob X. I’ve had him 12 years and used to show him and do unaffiliated jumping and dressage. He’s a real character and definitely a mummy’s boy.”
When stiffness became part of everyday life
As Mr Bean got older, Michele began to notice stiffness, particularly in his pasterns and coffin joints. Arthritis was diagnosed, which is something many owners face as their horses move into their later years.
While Mr Bean already wore roll-front shoes on his front feet, both the vet and farrier felt that shoeing his hind feet was not the right option. Michele wanted to find a way to support him behind that felt appropriate, gentle, and easy to manage alongside his existing routine.
Looking for a practical, non-invasive option
Like many owners, Michele began researching alternatives that could help support comfort without adding complexity. Her priority was something that would fit into everyday care rather than replace it.
She explains how she came across the magnetic pastern wraps:
“So I decided to look for something magnetic that could help him behind, and I came across your site and found the pastern wraps. He’s definitely a lot better when moving and a lot happier in himself, which is great to see as he is my absolute world.”
Changes Michele noticed over time
One of the first things Michele noticed was how Mr Bean moved, particularly when setting off.
As she says:
“He’s definitely a lot better when moving and a lot happier in himself,”
She also found the wraps straightforward to care for and easy to keep clean, which is an important consideration for daily use:
“I bought 2 pairs so I can wash one and keep a pair on. I wash them by hand just with warm water, and they clean up a treat.”
Why experiences like this are helpful for other owners
Stiffness and arthritis are common concerns for owners with ageing horses. Stories like Mr Bean’s can help other owners feel reassured that they are not alone and that supportive management often involves small, consistent steps rather than dramatic changes.
Magnetic therapy is often used alongside existing veterinary and farriery care, fitting into a daily routine. For many owners, the goal is simply to help their horse feel more comfortable.
If your horse is showing signs of stiffness
If your horse looks or feels stiff when moving off, you may be considering what supportive options could suit them best. Learning from other owners’ experiences can be a useful starting point when deciding what might work for your own horse and circumstances.
Michele’s experience with Mr Bean highlights how consistent care can play a role in supporting comfort as horses age.
Disclaimer: Please remember that magnetic therapy is not a replacement for veterinary care. If your horse is experiencing pain or discomfort, always consult with your veterinarian to determine the best course of treatment. In some instances, magnetic therapy might not be suitable for your horse and your vet can offer guidance based on your horse’s individual needs and health history.
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