Arthritis
Arthritis develops in joints due to the instability of the joint itself. This instability may be a result of trauma, chronic old age wear and tear, or as a result of abnormal development, as in pets with hip or elbow dysplasia.
There are some cases where surgery can alleviate or repair the instability of the joint and therefore prevent or decrease the arthritis that results. However, many conditions are treated medically.
When medical therapy is considered, the condition is addressed from many different angles. First is treatment to promote a healthier joint and slow down degeneration .For “joint support”, your veterinarian will discuss nutrition/weight loss, anti-oxidants, fatty acid supplements and chondroprotective agents. These products will also help decrease pain in many pets as they improve lubrication and joint function. Second is the use of a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory for pain relief and to decrease inflammation. Acupuncture is another medical therapy to help with painful arthritic conditions
Addressing arthritis in this way helps treat the patient as a whole and provides more opportunities for positive results. Please discuss these options with your veterinarian and staff.
Pain Relief:
Non-Steroidal (NSAID) Pain
Relievers:
Carprofen (Rimadyl®), Deracoxib (Deramaxx®) and Meloxicam (Metacam®) are newer drugs similar to aspirin. They have been demonstrated clinically to be much more effective in diminishing arthritic pain. Most pets experience no side effects, however occasional pets can experience significant side effects ranging from intestinal upset and nausea to significant liver or kidney disease. Your veterinarian will want to evaluate your pet prior to prescribing the medication to ensure the health of your animal. If carprofen ,deracoxib or meloxicam is prescribed for your pet, the veterinarian will recommend follow-up tests while the medication is being taken.
Narcotic and Other Pain
Relievers
Tramadol and Gabapentin are examples of other drugs that can be used to
augment the NSAIDS if adequate relief can not be
achieved
Anti-Oxidants: When a joint becomes arthritic, oxidation and free oxygen radical production occurs. This
results in an ongoing, acceleration of joint deterioration. Giving supplements that reduce free radical formation and decrease oxidation will help substantially in slowing down the degeneration of the joint.
Vitamin C: This antioxidant is produced in the body in sufficient amounts for normal function. When an arthritic process is occurring, supplementing the body’s own small supply with additional vitamin C is beneficial to help repair and decrease the amount of damage.
Fatty Acid Supplements: Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids (f.a.). especially Omega 3 help to decrease inflammation in the damaged joints. These fatty acids also work to improve hair and coat quality, in addition to benefiting the joints.
Chondroprotective Agents: Glucosamine, Chondroitin and Glucosaminoglycan are components and building blocks of cartilage and joint tissue. Supplementing the body provides additional building blocks, which may be deficient in the presence of arthritis.
Remember arthritis is slow chronic disease, which is developing before your pet actually shows signs of stiffness. Antioxidants and chondroprotective agents may slow and delay the onset of arthritis
*** Please talk to your veterinarian ***
12/09