Common Orthopaedic Conditions in Pets

Pets can suffer from a wide range of orthopaedic issues. Here are some of the most common conditions we treat at Vet.co.uk:

1. Arthritis
   Arthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects many pets, especially as they age. It causes the cartilage in the joints to wear down, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Symptoms include limping, reluctance to exercise, and difficulty getting up after resting. Treatments for arthritis include medications, joint supplements, and lifestyle changes, as well as advanced therapies like laser treatment and physical therapy.
2. Hip Dysplasia
   Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to joint instability, pain, and arthritis. This condition is especially common in large dog breeds like Labradors and German Shepherds. Treatment can range from lifestyle adjustments and medications to surgical interventions like hip replacement or femoral head ostectomy (FHO).
3. Cruciate Ligament Tears
   The cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) is a critical stabilizer of the knee joint in dogs. Tearing or rupturing this ligament can cause lameness, swelling, and instability in the affected leg. Surgery is often required to restore normal function. At Vet.co.uk, we offer advanced procedures such as Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO) or Tibial Tuberosity Advancement (TTA) to correct CCL injuries.
4. Luxating Patella
   Luxating patella occurs when the kneecap (patella) slips out of its normal position, causing the leg to “lock up” temporarily. This condition is common in small dog breeds and can range from mild to severe. Surgery may be required for chronic or severe cases to stabilize the kneecap and prevent further dislocation.
5. Fractures
   Bone fractures are often the result of trauma, such as falls, accidents, or severe impacts. At Vet.co.uk, we provide fracture repair surgeries, including bone plating, external fixation, and pinning, to stabilize the bone and promote healing.
6. Elbow and Shoulder Dysplasia
   These developmental conditions occur when the bones in the elbow or shoulder joints do not fit together properly, leading to joint pain, swelling, and eventual arthritis. Surgery is often required to correct the misalignment and prevent long-term damage.
7. Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
   IVDD is a condition where the discs between the vertebrae of the spine degenerate or herniate, leading to pain, nerve damage, and mobility issues. This is common in certain breeds like Dachshunds. Depending on the severity, treatments may range from medication and physical therapy to spinal surgery.

Signs of Orthopaedic Problems in Pets

Recognizing the signs of orthopaedic issues early can make a significant difference in your pet’s outcome. Some of the most common signs to watch for include:

• Limping or favoring one leg.
• Stiffness, particularly after rest or in the morning.
• Reluctance to jump, run, or climb stairs.
• Swelling around a joint or limb.
• Difficulty getting up or lying down.
• Behavioral changes, such as irritability or reduced activity.
• Clicking sounds from the joints when moving.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule a consultation with our veterinary orthopaedic team at Vet.co.uk.

Diagnostic Tools for Orthopaedic Issues

At Vet.co.uk, we use a range of advanced diagnostic tools to accurately assess your pet’s orthopaedic condition. These include:

1. X-rays
   X-rays are often the first step in diagnosing bone fractures, arthritis, and joint dysplasia. They provide a clear view of the bones and joints, allowing us to identify abnormalities and assess the severity of the issue.
2. CT Scans and MRIs
   For more complex cases, CT scans or MRIs may be required to get a detailed view of soft tissues, such as ligaments, tendons, and intervertebral discs. These advanced imaging techniques help us diagnose conditions like IVDD, ligament tears, and more.
3. Arthroscopy
   Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows us to look inside a joint using a small camera. It’s used for both diagnosis and treatment of joint issues such as arthritis, ligament injuries, and cartilage damage.

Treatment Options for Orthopaedic Conditions

Once a diagnosis is made, our team at Vet.co.uk will develop a customized treatment plan for your pet. Depending on the condition, treatment may involve:

1. Medications and Pain Management
   Many orthopaedic conditions can be managed with anti-inflammatory medications, pain relievers, and joint supplements. These help reduce pain and inflammation, improving your pet’s comfort and mobility.
2. Physical Therapy
   Physical rehabilitation is often an important component of orthopaedic care. Hydrotherapy, laser therapy, and strengthening exercises can help improve mobility, reduce pain, and speed up recovery after surgery.
3. Surgery
   In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the underlying issue. Our veterinary surgeons specialize in a variety of orthopaedic surgeries, including:
   • Cruciate ligament repair (TPLO, TTA).
   • Hip and elbow dysplasia surgery
   • Fracture repair.
   • Joint replacement for advanced arthritis.
4. Long-Term Management
   For chronic conditions like arthritis or hip dysplasia, long-term management is key. This may involve a combination of weight management, medications, physical therapy, and regular veterinary check-ups to monitor progress.

Preventing Orthopaedic Issues in Pets

While some orthopaedic conditions are genetic, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of bone and joint problems in your pet:

• Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight puts added strain on your pet’s joints.
• Regular exercise: Ensure your pet gets enough exercise to keep their muscles strong and joints flexible.
• Provide joint supplements: Talk to your vet about supplements that can support joint health, especially in older pets or breeds prone to joint issues.
• Monitor for changes: If you notice changes in your pet’s movement or behavior, seek veterinary advice promptly.

Trust Vet.co.uk for Expert Orthopaedic Care

At Vet.co.uk, we’re committed to helping pets live happy, active lives. Whether your pet is recovering from an injury or managing a chronic condition, our orthopaedic specialists are here to provide compassionate, expert care. If your pet is showing signs of bone or joint problems, don’t hesitate to contact us today to schedule an orthopaedic consultation.