Hip dysplasia is a structural malformation of the hip joint, where the socket shape of the hip joint and the ball shape of the end of the thigh bone don't fit well together. Repeated use of the joint leads to muscle strain, inflammation and pain, deterioration of the joint and osteoarthritis. Depending on the severity, hip dysplasia in dogs is managed both medically and surgically.
How do you know if your dog has hip dysplasia?
Dogs with hip dysplasia may present with one or several indicating signs including an abnormal gait, difficulty getting up and down or doing stairs or even an audible click sound when walking. A vet will perform orthopaedic tests and X-rays.
How can massage help dogs with hip dysplasia?
Conservative treatment for mildly affected dogs might include physiotherapy/hydrotherapy to improve muscle mass, pain medication and supplements to support joint health. Canine remedial massage can be an excellent additional treatment to reduce stress in compensating musculature facilitating maximum mobility and freedom of movement and to reduce arthritic symptoms such as inflammation and pain.
How can laser therapy help?
The aim of laser therapy for dogs with hip dysplasia is to help manage pain and inflammation and keep the joint as healthy as possible to maintain maximum mobility. Laser treatments can be as short as a few minutes per joint so laser offers a reasonably quick option that may also reduce the reliance on prescriptive medicines.
Laser therapy and remedial massage pre- and post-surgery
Canine remedial massage and laser treatments can also be given pre-operatively to give your best mate every success with her surgery. Ensuring she's as fit, strong and comfortable as she can be before hip dysplasia surgery will give her the best chance of recovering well. Post-operatively massage and laser can help dogs who have had surgery for hip dysplasia to restore full function to the joint, prevent restrictive scar tissue formation and reduce reliance on other medications.
Please contact us to make an enquiry about canine remedial massage or laser therapy for dogs with hip dysplasia.
