HIP AND ELBOW DYSPLASIA IN DOGS
Hip and elbow dysplasia are common
developmental diseases resulting in arthritic bone formation in the
effected joint. Radiographs taken during the dog’s period of growth
can detect both diseases early in their course. This is important
because early detection can lead to treatments which can limit the
extent of arthritic degeneration.
Technically, hip dysplasia is
defined as a subluxation of the hip joint. What this means is that
the alignment of the ball and socket hip joint is slightly off and
the weight-bearing stresses on the bone are abnormal. In an attempt
to distribute the weight more equitably, the bone starts remodeling
itself -- resulting in the formation of arthritic bone which damages
the smooth cartilage surface of the bones.
Elbow dysplasia also results in
arthritic damage, but it is not due to a malalignment. Rather, it
is due to a failure of a small piece of bone to properly fuse to the
main body of the bone, which acts as the hinge of the elbow. This
"joint mouse" constantly pings the joint surfaces which creates
damage and reactive bone formation. Early removal of the loose
piece will minimize the damage.
Early and severe cases of hip
dysplasia can be helped by a surgical procedure that realigns the
joint by tilting the pelvic part of the joint. This procedure must
be done before the arthritic changes develop. After changes have
developed, and if medical treatment is ineffective replacement of
the diseased hips with artificial devices can be performed with good
success. Rarely is hip dysplasia as debilitating as this. Years
ago, many of the debilitating effects which were thought to be
caused with hip dysplasia were actually being caused by a nerve
degeneration of the spinal cord (demyelinating disease).
Medical treatment involves the use
of medications to minimize the effects of the arthritis.
Glucosamine /chondroitin combinations help the body replace damaged
cartilage in the joint. In many case, buffered aspirin (ascriptin)
is effective in relieving arthritic discomfort. If stronger
medications are needed cortisone (prednisone) or non-stearoidal
anti-inflammatory agents (rimidyl) can be used. The important thing
to remember is that no medication is without potential side affects
and to use the least amount of medication that relieves the symptoms
(with the exception of the glucosamine, which should be continued at
a level dose).
A word about exercise: allow your pets to find their level of activity.
Activity should be encouraged
but never forced.
Every case is different.
Consultation with your veterinarian is the best way to find the best
combination of treatments for your dog.
