Arthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis we see in animals. It is the slow and progressive degeneration of the cartilage within a joint. There is also new bone produced around the joint which creates rough surfaces within the joint (see picture). A better name for this is DJD (Degenerative Joint Disease).

DJD can be primary or secondary:

Primary DJD

This is due to general wear and tear on joints through the animal's lifetime, usually occurring in old age. Being overweight greatly increases the likelihood of this as there is extra pressure on the joints during movement.

Secondary DJD

It can occur if there has been previous trauma such as fractures, Hip dysplasia, or a disease process which has affected the joint.

Symptoms

Lameness
Pain
Stiffness - most commonly after periods of laying down
Stiffness/lethargy during colder winter weather
Exercising less
Laying down more and reluctance to get up
Behavioural changes - Owners may notice not being greeted at the door by your dog, reluctance to play etc

Treatment

Weight loss
If you animal is overweight, the single most effective thing you can do for your animal is to be serious about weight loss. As already previously mentioned, extra weight means extra pressure on joints. By losing weight the pain and other symptoms of arthritis are greatly reduced and sometimes even eradicated.

Exercise
Exercise in animals with arthritis is another important factor to consider. Although the joints need to keep moving, exercise overall should be reduced in impact and quantity. For example 2-3 shorter walks are far better than a 2 hour run. The same applies to chasing balls and toys. Another common time for dogs in particular to show the symptoms of arthritis is after the weekend, when owners often have more time and go for longer walks.

Exercise should be kept constant if at all possible.

Swimming is an excellent form of exercise for patients with arthritis due to its low impact and resistance. This can be carried out at approved hydrotherapy centres. It's important to say that this is very different from swimming in a cold lake or river which in fact can be more damaging.

Pain management
Non steroidal anti inflammatories (NSAIDs) are often used in relevant cases of arthritis. There are several different types of which the Vet would discuss with you. They are usually given on a daily basis and at the lowest level that has an effect.

Dietary supplementation
Supplements can also aid in slowing the progression of the joint degeneration. Glucosamine and chondroitin can be used in their original form, but also beneficial are Curcumin and Turmeric which are found in some animal specific joint supplements. Mobility diets are often used with great success. They are balanced diets which contain high levels of the above nutraceuticals; these diets can improve mobility and reduce pain.

Other helpful tips
Cold weather can really affect stiffness of joints and so try to keep you animal's bed in a nice warm area out of draughts. Extra soft and padded bedding will also aid comfort. Heat therapy and physiotherapy can be done at home with guidance. Warming of the joints with bean bags or hot water bottles, and gentle movements and massage can also be beneficial in some cases.

To find out more about physiotherapy and heat therapy you can speak to our Head Nurse Elle Stevens RVN who would be happy to guide you on the best methods.