Arthritis in Dogs
Arthritis in dogs is similar to osteoarthritis in human beings in terms of its treatment and certain symptoms. The best way of dealing with arthritis in dogs, is to have a diagnosis from a vet and start the treatment immediately.
Vets use some of the following techniques to diagnose arthritis in dogs:
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Arthroscopy:
A minute camera introduced in the joint area of the pet details the changes and movements in the cartilage, which X-ray reports don't normally reveal.
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Ultrasound:
It does not see extensive use, as ultrasound cannot analyze deep into bones.
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Contrast Radiography:
It is one of the modern techniques for analyzing arthritis in dogs. An X-ray test, based on contrast radiography, reveals minute details of the cartilage particles that have broken off from the joints.
Types of Arthritis in Dogs:
Osteoarthritis in dogs results from gradual damage or collapse of their cartilage. This particular disease affects the bones. The bones begin to rub against one another and cause severe pain and uneasiness.
Larger breeds of dogs are more vulnerable to arthritis, especially Elbow Dysplasia, which they usually inherit from their ancestors. It produces the symptoms of severe pain and lameness, in the dog.
Osteochondrosis, Kneecap (dislocation) and Knee (stifle) are types of arthritis that are a result of poor breeding. The first may also be the effect of improper or poor diets. These can cause shoulder regeneration that makes it difficult to isolate the pet.
Degenerative Joint Disease, Hip Dysplasia and Hypertrophic Arthritis are results of malfunctioning in the bones, joints or sockets. Wrist arthritis, also seen in humans, is more common in active breeds of dogs.
Treatment for Arthritis in dogs:
It is important to know the symptoms and detect them early, for the treatment of arthritis in dogs. These may include obesity, decreased activity, difficulty in sleeping, eating, standing or sitting, reduced enthusiasm in playing, and sore joints.
Treatment for arthritis in dogs may involve certain effective medications such as Rimadyl (Carprofen) whose popularity is a result of its intriguing effects in cases all over the world. Another drug, Deramaxx, eases postoperative pain in dogs and inflammation from arthritis.
Therapies exist that can deal with arthritis in dogs. These involve a healthy diet plan and regular exercise as part of a standard plan by the vet. Acupuncture has also seen success with problems related to pain, as it gets rid of the need for any medicine for inflammation.
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