What is Osteoarthritis (OA)?
Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the leading causes of unmanaged pain in our pets. While commonly considreed an old dog disease, we know now dogs as young as 1 year of age can already be suffering from OA.
Osteoarthritis is an inflammatory condition that impacts all structures of the synovial joint. Synovitis, the inflammation of the synovial membrane, begins the vicious cycle that leads to advanced OA and irreparable cartilage damage.
Without proper diagnosis, treatment and management, OA can severely impact our pets mobility and quality of life.
At A Glance
What happens to my dog’s joints when they have OA?
Osteoarthritis impacts all the structures of the joint, with painful inflammation of the synovial membrane being a classic early sign and symptom of the diseases. Your pet can experience pain and decreased mobility (stiffness and swelling) even in the early stages. More advanced osteoarthritis results in the loss of cartilage and proper joint function, increasing the pain associated with the disease and further decreasing your pets mobility and comfort.
How do I know if my dog has Osteoarthritis?
OA can only be diagnosed by a veterinarian, thorough orthopedic exam and a variety of diagnostic imaging options. While X-rays are the most commonly used diagnostic, your veterinarian may recommend additional modalities such as ultrasound, CT, or arthroscopy for further diagnosis.
What treatments are available for OA?
Many treatments are available for osteoarthritis. A multi-modal approach to patient care is recommened which can include weigh management, rehabilitation, neutraceuticals, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugds (NSAIDs) and other systemic medications. Unfortunately, non of these options provide a direct, targeted treatment to the impacted joint(s) and often only modify symptoms of the disease.
How can we directly treat a joint inflicted with Osteoarthritis?
Intra-articular therapies offer a direct treatment option for OA. This offers a minimally invasion treatment, directly to the source of the pain and inflammation associated with the disease. It is important to discuss the differnce in intra-articular therapies with your veterinarian, as they do not all impact the same structures or provide long term benefit to the treated joint.
Are Intra-articular injections safe?
While all joint injections carry a small risk of local pain or infection, joint injections are considered to be one of the safest options for osteoarthritis treatment.
Newer therapies, such as ArthramidVet, also offer safe, long-lasting, drug-free therapy to joints impacted with OA. This removes the risk of harmful side effects to other body systems like the kidneys and liver.
Where can I get ArthramidVet?
Pet Owners – speak to your veterinarian about Osteoarthritis and if ArthramidVet could be right for your dog.
Veterinarians – Reach out to learn more about Arthramidvet and how it can be used in your practice.