References
Osteoarthritis in canines part 2: physical rehabilitation
Abstract
Osteoarthritis is a developmental disease that progresses as the canine ages. While incurable, there are ways to help mitigate the severity of the disease. Geriatric patients often have pain, lowered mobility, and decreased quality of life. Utilisation of clinical metrology instruments (CMIs), published pain management guidelines, multimodal medications, published quality of life scales, and the use of physical rehabilitation modalities/techniques enable the dog to live a full life. The dog's advancing age does not have to cause abrupt cessation of activities that all family members enjoy. Environmental modification and client education allow dogs to enjoy their entire life with their families.
Osteoarthritis is an inflammatory disease of articular cartilage in individuals and often studied in the context of ageing (Loeser, 2010). Clinical issues that are seen with ageing, geriatric patients are decreased proprioception and muscle atrophy (Goldberg et al, 2021). Recent clinical research suggests that weight loss, physical activity, and increasing muscle mass and strength are the only effective strategies for reducing pain and enhancing mobility in subjects with osteoarthritis (Messier et al, 2004) Osteoarthritis can affect any joint, including hips, elbows, and stifles, but also vertebral facet joints, carpal joints, tarsal joints, and even meta-carpophalangeal and metatarsophalangeal joints (Franklin et al, 2009).
Part 1 of this two part article looked at the causes of osteoarthritis and its detection by owners and veterinary professionals, and discussed the importance and methods of pain management. Part 2 will look at the physical rehabilitation modalities available for treating dogs with osteoarthritis.
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting The Veterinary Nurse and reading some of our peer-reviewed content for veterinary professionals. To continue reading this article, please register today.