21/08/2024
One important aspect of my role as a veterinary physiotherapist is dealing with pain and helping dog guardians, firstly to recognise what pain looks like and then give them ways to help their dog at home while we continue to treat the physical problems.
Chronic Pain in Dogs: Understanding the Impact
What is Chronic Pain?
Chronic pain, also known as maladaptive pain, is a persistent type of pain often linked to long-term conditions like osteoarthritis (OA). Unlike acute pain, which is temporary and subsides as the injury heals, chronic pain lingers even after tissues have healed and can last beyond 3 to 6 months. It puts your dog under constant stress, affecting both their physical and emotional well-being.
Chronic Pain is More than Prolonged Acute Pain
It’s important to understand that chronic pain isn’t just acute pain stretched over a longer period—it causes significant changes throughout the body. It alters the nervous system from the peripheral nociceptors (pain receptors) to the cerebral cortex, leading to hypersensitivity. This means your dog may become super sensitive to even light touches, so comfort is a big.
Consider This: How Often Do We Touch Our Dogs?
Every day, we engage with our dogs in ways that could aggravate their pain without us even realizing it:
• Stroking them
• Picking them up
• Putting on collars, harnesses, or leads
• Grooming
• Play
• Moving them in and out of the car
If your dog has a condition like osteoarthritis, the injury and inflammation are constant, meaning their brain is bombarded with pain signals regularly. Over time, these signals become embedded in their nervous system, like a painful memory that can persist even when no direct stimulus is present.
The Impact of Chronic Pain: More Than Just Physical Discomfort
Without proper management, chronic pain can worsen, affecting not just the painful area but potentially spreading across the body. It can lead to a range of problems, including:
🐾 Anxiety and depression
🐾 Changes in appetite and weight—some dogs may gain weight due to inactivity
🐾 Uncharacteristic behaviour, such as irritability, less tolerant or becoming reactive to dogs, humans or other animals when they have previously been more so.
In fact, a 2018 study found that dogs who show fear or anxiety in response to loud noises should be routinely assessed for pain.
(Lopes Fagundes et al., 2018, Frontiers in Veterinary Science)
Managing Chronic Pain: Don’t Give Up on Finding the Right Solution!
Finding the right pain relief can take time. You may not see results with the first medication your vet prescribes, but don’t be discouraged! Go back to your vet, discuss other options, adjust doses, or try a combination of treatments. There’s always hope for your dog to live a more comfortable life.
Physical Support Matters
Chronic conditions like osteoarthritis, hip dysplasia or luxating patella benefit from targeted physical therapy, which strengthens muscles and supports affected joints. Consider therapies such as physiotherapy and Tellington TTouch, which can create better communication between you and your dog while helping them relax.
Pain Relief Can Change Behaviour
Once your dog’s pain is properly managed, and they are physically more balanced, you might notice that their reactivity or other behavioural issues decrease—or even disappear altogether! Every dog is unique, and their reactions to chronic pain will differ, even with similar conditions. Always, always consider pain as a potential cause when you see a change in your dog’s behaviour.
Remember: Chronic pain is complex, but with the right support, your dog can live a happier, more comfortable life. 🧡🐾
Get in touch if you would like to learn more about how I can help you and your dogs. Rachel x
