BY DR NICKY THOMAS, WYNNUM MANLY VETERINARY HOSPITAL
Arthritis is a common disease causing inflammation of the joints. The cartilages, which normally protect joints, break down, and the bones rub together – this is very painful and leads to limping, stiffness, an inability to jump and difficulty climbing stairs.
Arthritis is a degenerative disease and is unfortunately not reversible. Your vet can help you to determine the most effective treatment plan for your pet – a combination of anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving medications, joint supplements and newer injectable medications that target nerve growth factors may be recommended. The inclusion of physical therapy may assist your dog to have an improved quality of life.
The goal of physical therapy is to strengthen the muscles that support the damaged joints, improving joint mobility and range of motion, and promoting joint health to reduce pain and inflammation. Therapies include:
- Hands-on techniques – massage, stretching of muscles and joint manipulation can be performed by trained veterinarians or animal physiotherapists. You may be able to learn some techniques to use at home to help keep your pet’s muscles relaxed and improve the mobility of the joints.
- Therapeutic exercise – regular, gentle exercise can be extremely beneficial for animals with arthritis. Exercise can help reduce weight gain which is essential in ensuring that degenerating joints are not overloaded. Low-impact activities such as swimming, gentle leash walks and the use of an underwater treadmill are all useful forms of exercise.
- Cold and heat treatment – an ice pack wrapped in a towel can help to reduce inflammation in joints after exercise, while a warm heat pack (again wrapped in a towel) can improve the flexibility of joints and can be utilised before exercise.
- Laser treatment, electrical stimulation and ultrasound treatment – these forms of treatment may be recommended and administered by a trained veterinarian or animal rehabilitation provider.
If your pet is suffering from arthritis have a consultation with your veterinarian to help formulate a treatment plan. There are a number of great pet rehabilitation providers in and around Brisbane who may be able to improve your pet’s comfort – ask your vet for a referral.
