What is Arthritis in Dogs?
Just like humans, dogs can suffer from arthritis as they enter their senior years. Arthritis occurs when the surface between the joints begins to thin and wear away – this results in the death of cartilage cells. When these cells die, the joint becomes inflamed by the release of joint fluid and inflammatory enzymes.
With time, this inflammation causes pain and stiffness in the joints, limiting mobility and restricting movement. Eventually, as the limb becomes disused due to pain, muscle atrophy and lameness can set in, leaving your dog completely immobile and unable to do so much as walk outside on their own.
If not properly addressed, arthritis can cause severe pain for dogs, particularly in cooler weather or if they live in a home with hard floors.
How Is Arthritis Diagnosed?
While you may be able to see the physical signs of discomfort and stiffness in your dog with the naked eye, it is important that you seek veterinary care to diagnose arthritic pain.
At The Animal Doctors, we will use a variety of techniques to help localize potential problem areas. And, we will also look for signs of crepitus (cracking or grinding sensation when moving the joint), changes to your dog’s gait, and the presence of muscle atrophy.
How Does Laser Therapy Treat Arthritis?
A non-traditional treatment option for arthritis in dogs is laser therapy, also known as photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy. This treatment involves directing concentrated light energy to the joints affected by arthritis. The pulses of light energy not only help to reduce pain-inducing inflammation, but also target and penetrate the cells in the joint, triggering them to produce new proteins and enzymes that aid in cellular repair and regeneration. The Animal Doctors team works hard to provide the best possible care for your arthritic dog during their treatment.
A non-traditional treatment option for arthritis in dogs is laser therapy, also known as photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy. This treatment involves directing concentrated light energy to the joints affected by arthritis. The pulses of light energy not only help to reduce pain-inducing inflammation, but also target and penetrate the cells in the joint, triggering them to produce new proteins and enzymes that aid in cellular repair and regeneration. This entire process works to reboot your dog’s natural healing mechanisms and alleviate localized pain.
Managing arthritis symptoms in older dogs is crucial in ensuring your senior pooch lives out their final years in comfort and peace, so come and visit The Animal Doctors team for a consultation if your dog is suffering from arthritis.
The Animal Doctors services the entire San Francisco Peninsula, including Atherton, Cupertino, East Palo Alto, Los Altos, Los Altos Hills, Menlo Park, Mountain View, Palo Alto, Portola Valley, Redwood City, Stanford, and Woodside.
