ELBOW DYSPLASIA
WHAT IS ELBOW DYSPLASIA?
Elbow dysplasia means that the three bones of the elbow joint (humerus, radius, & ulna) did not form normally. The result is excessive stress placed on the elbow which leads to cartilage damage and arthritis. Since dogs put so much weight on their front legs, elbow dysplasia can be a major long-term problem.
There are different secondary conditions associated with elbow dysplasia, but the most common is a fragmented medial coronoid process. This is a small crack or chip of cartilage that develops on the cartilage surface of the ulna.
WHAT CAUSES ELBOW DYSPLASIA?
A number of factors contribute to the development of elbow dysplasia. These include genetics, rapid growth, diet, and conformation abnormalities. Certain breeds of dogs are at higher risk for developing elbow dysplasia. These include Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, and Bernese Mountain Dogs.
DOES ELBOW DYSPLASIA AFFECT YOUNGER OR OLDER DOGS?
Elbow dysplasia is most commonly diagnosed in actively growing younger dogs. Unfortunately, some dogs do not get diagnosed until they are older. By this time, chronic arthritis has usually set in and is the primary cause of limping and discomfort.
WHAT ARE THE SIGNS THAT MY DOG MAY HAVE ELBOW DYSPLASIA?
A noticeable limp of a front leg is the most common sign of elbow dysplasia. Limping may be sporadic and will often be more noticeable after exercise. Limping will often get better with rest, but will then re-occur once activity resumes.
HOW IS ELBOW DYSPLASIA DIAGNOSED?
Elbow dysplasia can be very difficult to diagnose. A comprehensive orthopedic exam is very important and will help localize the problem to the elbow. An X-rays of both elbows is the initial diagnostic test used to screen for elbow dysplasia. If x-rays are not conclusive, a CT scan or diagnostic arthroscopy may be recommended. It is best to screen or diagnose elbow dysplasia early so that treatment can begin before a significant amount of arthritis has developed.
WHAT IS THE TREATMENT FOR ELBOW DYSPLASIA?
Currently, there is not a single treatment that is 100% effective for elbow dysplasia. The goals for treating elbow dysplasia include correcting any underlying structural abnormality (i.e. fragmented medial coronoid process), slowing down the progression of arthritis, and making your pet as comfortable and functional as possible. The VOMC surgical and rehabilitation therapy team will design a specific therapeutic protocol for your pet that will take a number of factors into consideration.
WHAT IS THE LONG-TERM PROGNOSIS IF MY DOG HAS BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH ELBOW DYSPLASIA?
The primary long-term problem that will effective overall leg function and comfort is chronic arthritis. Unfortunately, the vast majority of dogs with elbow dysplasia will develop chronic arthritis which will eventually cause chronic pain and affect overall mobility. Elbow arthritis cannot be cured; however, there are a number of oral medications, joint treatments, and therapeutic exercises that can be utilized to help slow down the progression of arthritis.
CAN REHABILITATION THERAPY HELP IF ELBOW DYSPLASIA IS PRESENT?
While there is no way to resolve elbow dysplasia, many rehabilitation techniques may be helpful in managing the symptoms associated with this problem. LASER and/or acupuncture treatments can be effective ways to decrease pain and inflammation. Therapeutic Exercise and Underwater Treadmill sessions promote weight bearing and strengthen the muscles of the leg. It is also important that your pet maintain a lean body weight.