Dr. Kara Brown conducts a lameness exam. Photo: John Donges/Penn VetIn this episode of TheHorse.coms Equine Innovators, Kara Brown, VMD, Dipl. ACVSMR, assistant professor of equine sports medicine and rehabilitation at the University of Pennsylvanias New Bolton Center, in Kennett Square, describes innovative approaches to diagnosing and managing osteoarthritis (OA) in horses. She explains how joint degeneration impacts equine athletes and where traditional treatments such as NSAIDs and corticosteroids fall shortespecially in horses with metabolic risk factors.Brown explores the growing role of regenerative medicine, including orthobiologic therapies such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP), autologous protein solution (Pro-Stride APS), and stem cells. She highlights recent research into these therapies safety and efficacy, including findings that show common pain medications dont compromise orthobiologic product quality when used appropriately.Throughout the conversation Brown emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis, advanced imaging technologies (MRI, CT, PET), and personalized, rehabilitation-based care to extend joint health and performance in both young athletes and aging equine partners.The Equine Innovators podcast series is brought to you by Zoetis. You can find the Equine Innovators podcast on TheHorse.com, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and many other podcast apps. Dont miss a single episode! Sign up now to receive email reminders from The Horse.Show Notes:The State of Equine OrthobiologicsInfographic: Orthobiologic Options for Treating HorsesResearch-Based Advances in Equine Orthopedic TherapiesResearch News Releases:Research From the University of Pennsylvanias New Bolton Center Informs the Use of NSAIDs Alongside Regenerative Medicine DevicesPro-Stride APS Device Shown to Offer Protection Against Synovitis in HorsesNew Research Provides Clarity Around the Treatment of Equine OsteoarthritisAbout the Researcher:Kara A. Brown, VMD, Dipl. ACVSMR, is assistant professor in Equine Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicines (Penn Vet) New Bolton Center, in Kennett Square. She is a graduate of Penn Vet. After graduation she completed an equine internship at Woodside Equine Clinic, in Ashland, Virginia, followed by a large animal internship, a clinical fellowship in large animal cardiology and ultrasound, and a residency training program in equine sports medicine and rehabilitation at New Bolton Center. She is a boarded diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation and has a strong clinical and research interest in poor performance in the equine athlete, axial skeletal pain, and regenerative medicine.