Breaking the Negative Cycle of Arthritis: How Rehab Can Help Your Pet Live a Pain-Free Life
Arthritis is a degenerative joint disease that can affect dogs and cats. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the joints begins to wear down, leading to inflammation, pain, and stiffness. Arthritis can affect any joint in the body, including the hips, knees, elbows, and spine.
The risk factors for arthritis in dogs and cats are varied. Age is a significant factor, as the likelihood of developing arthritis increases with age. Arthritis is very common, and it is estimated that 20% of dogs over the age of one and 60% of cats over the age of six have arthritis. Dogs with hip dysplasia or elbow dysplasia will develop arthritis in those joints later in life. Large breed dogs are more prone to developing arthritis due to the extra weight and stress placed on their joints. Obesity is another risk factor, as excess weight puts additional strain on the joints and can accelerate the progression of arthritis. Other factors that can contribute to the development of arthritis include poor nutrition, certain infections, and autoimmune diseases.
Arthritis follows a negative feedback cycle that can snowball and cause worsening symptoms and decreased quality of life. The image below lays out his this cyle works. It starts with inflammation, which causes pain and discomfort for the pet. This pain leads to a reduction in activity as the pet tries to avoid movements that exacerbate the pain. The reduced activity level results in muscle atrophy, reduced range of motion, and weight gain. These changes further decrease joint support and increase stress on the joints, leading to more cartilage damage and worsening arthritis. This, in turn, leads back to increased inflammation, perpetuating the cycle.
Rehabilitation plays a crucial role in breaking this negative cycle of arthritis. The goal of rehabilitation is to improve the pet's mobility, reduce pain and inflammation, and enhance their overall quality of life. Various treatment options can be utilized, including laser therapy, which helps reduce pain and inflammation. PEMF therapy utilizes electromagnetic fields to promote healing and reduce inflammation. TENS therapy involves the use of low-level electrical stimulation to alleviate pain. Massage therapy helps relax muscles and improve circulation. Ultrasound therapy can help reduce inflammation and promote tissue healing.
In addition to these modalities, hands-on techniques like stretching, massage, and mobilizations can help increase flexibility and range of motion in the affected joints. Targeted exercises can also be implemented to strengthen the muscles supporting the joints and help with weight management. These exercises are tailored to each pet's individual needs and abilities.
By breaking the negative cycle of arthritis through rehabilitation, pets can experience improved mobility, reduced pain, and increased enjoyment of their favorite activities. If your dog is struggling with arthritis, it is important to seek professional help. By contacting us today, we can provide you with more information on how rehabilitation can specifically benefit your pet and help them live a more comfortable and active life.