The present invention provides a composition comprising HMB. Methods of administering HMB to an animal are also described. HMB is administered to decrease joint instability, increase joint stability, decrease joint stiffness, improve joint function, improve joint health, improve balanced movement and improve skeletal joint stability during muscle movement. HMB is administered to increase muscle strength and/or muscle mass in a side of the body contralateral to joint inflammation, joint damage, and/or joint injury.