Arthritis In Dogs
A Guide For Arthritis in Dogs – Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment
arthritis in dog
Arthritis is a condition best described as joint inflammation. While this is an accurate explanation if we were to drill down further we probably would consider it an inflammation of the synovial joints.
Synovial joints are located in many different part of the body and make it possible for both humans and dogs to move freely while serving in a shock absorbing capacity. Each synovial joint consists of ligaments, cartilage on which the ends of the bones move or articulate, joint fluid designed to lubricate the joint and provide nutrition to the articular cartilage, and a tough, fibrous capsule surrounding it all. Additionally, some synovial joints contain special pads of cartilage, known as menisci, which act as super shock absorbers.
Arthritis can affect one joint or multiple joint (polyarthritis). Joint inflammation can be accompanied by loss of cartilage orbony changes within the joint(s).
Arthritis in dogs may be brought about by:
* Age
* Overuse of Joints
* Trauma or Injury
* Infections
* Certain drugs (overuse of antibiotics)
* Autoimmune diseases
Regardless of the cause, the signs linked with this condition are relatively easy to spot and basically the same in most animals. Stiffness and lameness involving one or more limbs is often the most obvious sign of a joint condition. In most instances, dog arthritis becomes worse in the winter due to cold weather. While exercise is important for you and your pets health is tends to aggravate dog arthritis.
If your dog is experiencing arthritic joint problems you may have noticed their irritability and overall reluctance to run and jump. If your dog is experiencing an arthritic hip condition he may have trouble performing even the simplest task, such as walking or getting to his feet after taking a nap. Your pets may experience pain in the joints as well as swelling, especially if the condition was brought about by an infection or an autoimmune disease. Depression, fever, and loss of appetite could become apparent over time as your pet struggles with the painful challenges he faces on a daily basis.
Your veterinarian will arrive at a diagnosis by simple observing joint and gate movements, performing a physical palpation of the joint or joints in question, and possibly obtaining a radiograph or X-ray.
Once a diagnosis has been confirmed conventional treatment options are somewhat limited, stopping short of surgery.
On a personal note I have had some success with water therapy (swimming pool, tub) for joint problems. The water will make exercise less painful and who knows, perhaps with a little work it might become fun for both of you!
While conventional treatment options are limited there are some excellent natural treatment alternatives available which have shown promise for managing and reversing dog and pet arthritis.
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