10/28/2024
Let’s talk about Canine Elbow Dysplasia.
Canine elbow dysplasia (CED) is a common orthopedic condition in dogs, particularly in larger breeds. It refers to a group of developmental abnormalities that affect the elbow joint, leading to improper formation and alignment of the bones. This condition can cause pain, lameness, and reduced mobility.
There are several components of CED:
🐾 Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD): This occurs when a piece of cartilage in the joint doesn’t form properly, leading to joint pain and inflammation.
🐾 Elbow Incongruence: This happens when the bones in the elbow joint (humerus, radius, and ulna) do not fit together correctly, causing abnormal wear and tear.
🐾 Ununited Anconeal Process (UAP): In this case, a small bone fragment in the elbow doesn’t fuse properly, leading to joint instability.
🐾 Fragmented Coronoid Process (FCP): This involves a small fragment of bone breaking off from the coronoid process of the ulna, leading to pain and arthritis.
Symptoms of CED can include limping, stiffness, swelling around the elbow, and difficulty with activities like jumping or climbing stairs. Diagnosis typically involves physical examinations, X-rays, and sometimes advanced imaging like CT scans.
Treatment options vary based on severity and may include weight management, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery to correct structural issues.
At Surpass Wellness, I use a combination of acupuncture & laser therapy to help reduce inflammation in the elbow joint, improving the dog’s comfort. I may also use joint mobilizations to maximize range of motion in the joint and also reduce pain. Strengthening/rehab is an integral part of therapy because if we can strengthen the surrounding muscles, this puts less stress on the joints. Lastly, joint supplements and weight management are always recommended.