Comprehensive Guide to Dogs Musculoskeletal Disorder
Dogs and Musculoskeletal Disorder: The most Common Musculoskeletal Disorders in Dogs consist of the muscle and skeleton working together to form support for joints, and musculoskeletal disorders in dogs generally refer to bone and joint problems.
These disorders can be genetic, the result of injury, or part of the ageing process, and they are more commonly seen in large and active breeds. There are many and varied musculoskeletal disorders, but we’ll focus on the most common ones for this article, and what you can do to help.
Arthritis
People typically associate arthritis with older dogs, and in fact, osteoarthritis arises from the degeneration of joint cartilage, often due to age and overuse—most Common Musculoskeletal Disorders in DOS. However, hypertrophic arthritis can occur in younger large-breed dogs and is frequently referred to as growing pains. Treatment usually consists of anti-inflammatory medication, painkillers, and joint support.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament Disorders
The cruciate ligament supports the knee in the dog’s hind legs and can be injured, as it often happens with large working dogs, or it can degenerate over time. Partial tears can heal with rest, but more extensive damage needs surgery to repair and stabilise the joint.
Dogs with cruciate ligament disorders will often have swelling and pain around the affected joint, and it’s essential to ensure they rest and see their vet to prevent further damage.
Patellar Luxation
Often called knee dysplasia, patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap slips out of place repeatedly and can cause further joint damage over time if left untreated. The dog may develop a strange skipping gait, and treatment is not always effective. Only severe cases require surgery.
Hip or Elbow Dysplasia
Large dogs that grow too fast due to an inappropriate diet or excessive exercise often develop hip or elbow dysplasia, which damages the joints and causes them to develop incorrectly. Many large breeds inherit this genetic health condition, which can manifest in young dogs or remain undetected until much older.
Depending on the severity of the condition, doctors may prescribe medication and painkillers, or in the worst cases, surgery.
Dogs and Musculoskeletal Disorder: Osteochondrosis
Another disorder caused by rapid growth in large dogs, osteochondrosis affects the shoulder, elbow and knee joints and often affects pups less than a year old. When the smooth cartilage in the joints becomes inflamed, small pieces break off and float around, exacerbating the pain.
Mild cases can heal with plenty of rest, but more severe cases will need surgery.
Finding the Cause and Cure
When diagnosing musculoskeletal problems, doctors often use diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays or MRIs, in addition to physical exams. For certain myopathies, laboratory testing may also be necessary.
Depending on the pet’s health, possible treatments may involve:
- Some medications reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort.
- Manual treatment increases the range of motion and muscular strength.
- Surgical procedures for more serious cases, such as joint stabilisation, are necessary.
- Correcting nutritional deficits through nutritional management
The key to effective therapy is early detection, so it’s beneficial to have your pet checked regularly.
Veterinary Hospital Port Kennedy
Your pet’s health and comfort are our top priority, so if your dog shows signs of any musculoskeletal disorders, bring them in to the vet clinic at Port Kennedy Vets for assessment and early treatment.
Call 08 9524 6644 or contact us online for any enquiries or health concerns regarding your pet.
Also read –
Things to do near Port Kennedy
The Best Things to Do in Rockingham
Day Trip to Fremantle, Western Australia
Also visit –
🐾 Leave your little friend with us when on holiday
