What is Arthritis?

By Dr. Kara Kessling

Put simply, arthritis is defined as the inflammation of a joint. By far the most common type of arthritis in dogs is “osteoarthritis,” or degenerative joint disease (DJD). Osteoarthritis results from the degeneration of cartilage in the joint due to injury, gradual wear and tear, or abnormal conformation that causes increased stress on the joints. The job of cartilage is to cover and protect the bones that make up a joint. It does not contain any nerves and can therefore sustain significant forces without causing any pain to the joint. However, when this protective cover is compromised, the underlying bone is exposed. Because bone does contain nerves, the result is significant pain and protrusions. As these protrusions develop and mover over one another, the pain and swelling associated with the joint worsens.

The most common signs of canine arthritis include the gradual onset of lameness or stiffness in one or more limbs, reluctance to climb stairs or go on walks, and pain and swelling note don palpation of the affected joints. These signs are generally worse in the morning or after rest, and can improve once the dog starts moving and “loosening up.”

Treatment of canine arthritis depends on the underlying cause. In the case of an injury, surgical repair might be necessary to stabilize the compromised joint. Because obesity often plays a role in arthritis due to increased stress on the joints, weight control is also an important component of therapy. Anti-inflammatory medications are often used to alleviate the swelling and discomfort associated with arthritis, regardless of the cause. Additionally, joint supplement can increase cartilage health and therefore inhibit the progression of arthritis.