How do we treat arthritis?
Treatment will depend on the cause of arthritis. Immune mediated and rheumatoid arthritis are usually treated with high doses of corticosteroids, often with dramatic improvement. The control of these conditions often involves the long-term use of corticosteroids and other drugs such as immunosuppressive or cytotoxic agents.
The treatment of septic arthritis involves determining the type of microorganism involved and its antibiotic sensitivity. Antibiotics are usually administered for a minimum of a month and analgesics (pain relief medications) are necessary to combat pain and inflammation.
Analgesics such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the most common form of treatment for osteoarthritis. It is important to select these medications with care since some dogs are more sensitive than others to the potential side-effects of analgesics.
The most common side-effects of analgesics include decreased appetite, vomiting and diarrhea. Pre-medication blood tests must be performed to make sure that the pet can safely metabolize and eliminate the medication and then periodic blood tests are necessary to ensure continued safe usage.
Common signs of early arthritis in your pet may include: a stiff gait, walking with rear legs straight and failing to extend or bend the knees, pain and stiffness first thing in the morning which appears to get better as the day progresses, dragging toes of either back or forelimbs, loss of muscle mass over the hip or thigh region, pain/vocalization if picked up over the back/lumbar region, limping from time to time on any paws, reluctance to get up when called.
If you feel your pet may be exhibiting any of these signs, please let us know. There are many safe, effective medications now available to ease the discomfort associated with Osteoarthritis. We can help determine which medication is right for your pet.
It is our goal here at A Animal Clinic to be certain your pet is comfortable and able to live a long and healthy life with you and your family. We are here to help!
