Treatment Options to Relieve Your Dog's Joint Pain Problems

There are a variety of different approaches to dog joint pain relief. The important first step is to have the cause of joint pain determined by your veterinarian. They will carry out a physical examination, record a history of symptoms and in some cases x-rays may be ordered. Treatments will depend on the causes of your dog's joint pain. Degenerative problems such as arthritis are associated with inflammation in the joints due to the wear and tear of cartilage. As this disease progresses, ligaments may deteriorate and your dog may develop osteoarthritis. Hip dysplasia results in the abnormal structure of the joints and cartilage which may wear down over time leading to exposed bones As bones begin to rub together it not only causes further deterioration of the joint but inflammation and pain. Joint pain can also be the result of injury and natural wear and tear associated with the aging process or more sever conditions such as Lyme disease or bone cancer.

For advanced stages of hip dysplasia surgery may be required and more specific treatments for cases of bone cancer and auto-immune problems. However, for most joint problems inflammation is treated with anti-inflammatory drugs such as NSAIDS. These may include Rimadyl, Motrin and additional pain relievers may also be prescribed for dog joint pain relief. Diet and exercise play an important part in addressing joint issues. It is important to ensure your dog receives the optimum amount of vitamins and minerals whilst ensuring your dog is not over exercised which can create stress on the joints. Instead moderate exercise is also important to maintain a healthy weight in your dogs as extra weight can also cause stress on the joints.

Dog joint supplements provide a natural alterative to prescription medication for dog joint pain relief and may reduce the need to use these long term. They can also be used as a preventative measure. Dog joint supplements often contain comprehensive vitamins and minerals as well as ingredients proven effective for joint support such as glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM. They are also particularly useful for supporting cartilage within the joints, helping to prevent wear and tear unlike NSAIDs which typically only provide short term pain relief. Household adjustments such as harnesses and ramps can be used to help support your dog's mobility at home. In advanced cases of problems such as hip dysplasia, surgery may be required. With a correct diagnosis and in consultation with your veterinarian there are many options for dog joint pain relief.