Osteoarthritis in Dogs

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This page contains information on osteoarthritis/degenerative joint disease in dogs.

• Degenerative joint disease (DJD) is characterized by the loss of the smooth cartilage that covers and protects the ends of bones in a joint.
• The cartilage has no nerves so when it touches the cartilage of another bone there is no pain.
• However, when the cartilage wears away, as in DJD, the bone is exposed, this does have nerves, so when the two bone ends’ touch it results in pain and inflammation.
• In DJD we also see small bony projections forming at the ends of the bone that add to the pain.

Causes

• Can occur as a result of wear and tear on a normal joint as the dog ages = Primary DJD.
• Can also occur as a result of another condition affecting the joint, such as hip or elbow dysplasia, or an old traumatic injury such as an old fracture or cruciate ligament rupture = Secondary DJD.

Symptoms

Vary depending on joint involved. Age of the dog and severity of the disease, but you may see….

• Altered gait
• Muscle wasting
• Difficulty rising
• Stiffness after rest
• Changes in appetite and behaviour

Diagnosis

• History from the owner and physical examination
• Radiographs

Treatment

Can be treated medically and surgically, but is generally aimed at trying to manage the signs. DJD is a progressive disease and the severity of the symptoms are likely to increase over time.

• Weight management; it is important to keep affected dogs slim as extra weight increases the stress on joints.
• Moderate exercise; short and easy walks every day. Swimming can also help maintain a good range of motion in the joints.
• Medication; anti-inflammatories, such as ‘Rimadyl’ or ‘Metacam’. Extra pain-killing drugs can be added in at a later stage, for example, ‘Tramadol’.
• Polysulphated glycosaminoglycans (PSGAGs) and hyaluronic acid derivatives can also be used in DJD patients and they may help to protect the joint and provide substances needed for joint repair.
• Acupuncture; has been noted to be beneficial in the management of DJD.
• Surgery; Some forms of DJD can be treated with specialist surgery, such as hip replacements. Success rates depend on the changes that have already occurred in and around the joint.