Osteoarthritis is characterised by low grade inflammation which leads to progressive changes to the structure and function of the cartilage in the joint. It is also termed degenerative joint disease which is more descriptive in that it implies degeneration of the cartilage from its normal structure.

 

The function of cartilage is to provide joints with a smooth gliding surface for efficient movement as well as providing the joints with shock-absorbing properties. Once osteoarthritis sets in, thinning of the cartilage results with a subsequent loss of movement, which is characterised by joint stiffness and pain. During the process of osteoarthritis a number of enzymes are released resulting in further degradation of the cartilage and subsequent pain.

 

Dogs may present with a number of signs including reluctance to go for walks, inability to climb stairs, particular joint pain and possibly even swollen joints in the advanced stages.

 

How do we treat Osterarthritis?

 

The cornerstone of osteoarthritis treatment is the removal or inactivation of these damaging enzymes. The treatment protocol your vet may use will include the following:

 

Exercise – consistent low-level exercise is important. Long walks and strenuous exercise will put additional pressure on the joints and will do more harm than good. Swimming has been shown to be beneficial in that it helps build muscle to support the joints without the high impact forces of normal exercise.
Weight loss – by keeping your dog’s weight to a minimum, less load is placed on the diseased joints which helps reduce further damage and partially alleviate some of the pain symptoms.
Anti-inflammatory drugs – these are available on prescription only from your veterinarian.  They effectively block the damaging enzymes and are also strong painkillers. They may be used long-term in severe cases but must be used with veterinary supervision. Anti-inflammatories for human use (such as ibuprofen) are not tolerated well by dogs and can result in serious side effects. Your vet will prescribe a veterinary product that has been proven to be safe and effective in dogs.
Nutritional Supplements – Joint supplements contain a number of active ingredients, of which only a few have been scientifically proven to be effective.
Glucosamine acts as both an anti-inflammatory and a building block for cartilage.
Chondroitin Sulphate is an effective anti-inflammatory and there are a number of trials to prove its effectiveness. However the size of the molecule is an important factor in its absorption. Low molecular weight Chondroitin Sulphate is more highly absorbed and consequently will be more effective. It has both anti-inflammatory and building block properties.
Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and have been shown to be beneficial for the osteoarthritic joint.

 

Summary of treatment

 

So your dog has been diagnosed with moderate to severe osteoarthritis. What are the options? Firstly ensure that he is an optimal weight – almost on the thin side. This will certainly make management of his condition a little easier. Secondly he should be on a reputable and effective nutritional supplement, preferably one that contains low molecular weight chondroitin sulphate. Effective nutritional supplements will help reduce the damaging enzymes within the joint as well as support the cartilage and help slow down progression of the disease. Thirdly your vet may also decide to use anti-inflammatory drugs to help reduce pain and inflammation. These may be used on a long-term permanent basis or intermittently when required. In any event, even if your dog is on these drugs it is still important to maintain weight reduction and use a nutritional supplement which will give additional support to the diseased cartilage.

 

With the correct management your dog with osteoarthritis can lead a relatively normal life.

 

Article by Dr Craig Mincher BSc BVSc MBA