Arthritis is a painful condition of the joints.

Types

q Degenerative joint disease (DJD): due to wear and tear on the joints and typically seen in older animals. It is also known as osteoarthritis.

q Infectious: due to bacterial disease such as Lyme’s or a contaminated wound.

q Rheumatoid: due to an attack by the body’s own defenses.

Diagnosis

q Physical examination: palpation of the joints, assessing range of motion, pain, crepitus (grinding), and neurologic function

q X-rays q Arthrocentesis (joint tap) looks at types of cell and amount of protein in cases of excessive joint fluid.

q Blood tests to help diagnose infectious and rheumatoid arthritis, screen appropriate medication for DJD

Joint Malformations

As a puppy grows, the bones grow longer from the growth plates near each end. As the dog finishes growing, these growth plates fuse. Especially in large and giant breed dogs, there are several conditions in which the joint does not properly form. Arthritis will start at a younger age and be more severe in such a joint. In many cases, surgical correction is possible.

q OCD, a cartilage defect most common in the shoulder

q elbow dysplasia in which the growth plates of the radius and ulna do not fuse properly

q hip dysplasia, a poor fit in the ball and socket joint between the pelvis and the femur

q luxating patella, a knee cap that slides off the joint

Treatment For DJD

Nutritional Management

q Ideal to Lean Body weight decreases the strain and painfulness of arthritic joints.

q Glucosamine and chondroitin are used to make thicker joint fluid and maintain remaining cartilage. Many formulations include other nutrients such as vitamin C, various minerals, and MSM, an anti-inflammatory chemical. It is important to select an reliable manufacturer since nutritional supplements are not regulated by the government.

q Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) are anti-inflammatory. They are available in pumps, capsules, treat form, or in a special diet, Hill’s j/d.

Home Care

q Egg-crate foam mattress pads, fleece bed covers, and heated beds can provide comfort.

q Moderate regular exercise: Pets with arthritis need to keep moving to maintain muscle to support the joints and stimulate production of joint fluid. However, they should never exercise to the point of being tired because that will cause more injury. Swimming is one of the best exercises. Other forms of physical therapy may be prescribed.

 Pain control: Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) and narcotics.

q NSAIDs are great pain killers for arthritis. While most people are familiar with aspirin, Advil, and Celebrex, other drugs in this group are safer for dogs and cats. The most commonly prescribed drugs for dogs include Rimadyl, Deramaxx, Zubrin, Previcox, and Metacam. These drugs require even greater caution in cats, but in some cases Metacam or aspirin can be helpful. NSAIDs can cause stomach ulcers and liver and kidney failure. Patients taking these medications regularly need screening lab work every 6 months. Signs to watch for include loss of appetite, vomiting, and black, tarry diarrhea. If these occur, stop the medication and call us immediately. NSAIDs and steroids (prednisone, triamcinalone, Mometamax) together create a high risk for stomach ulcers. Consult the veterinarian about stopping your pet’s NSAID if a steroid is prescribed.

q Narcotics can be a great alternative for pets who can’t take NSAIDs or added to NSAIDs for more severe pain. The most commonly used are tramadol and Torbutrol. These medications are minimally sedating.

Adequan is an injectible polysulfated glycoaminoglycan. This substance is anti-inflammatory and heals the joint capsule and other connective tissue. The treatment is pain-relieving and improves joint function, both weigh-bearing and range of motion. It is given by intramuscular injection once a week for 4 weeks, then occasionally if needed.

Therapy Laser uses light energy to relieve pain and promote healing. Areas treated with the laser have improved blood flow, immune function, and tissue regeneration. The typical treatment takes 10 minutes and is performed 6 times in the first 3 weeks, then as needed.