Causes of Musculoskeletal Issues in Pets

Many pets are prone to developing orthopedic issues as they age or due to injuries. Some common causes of musculoskeletal problems in dogs and cats include joint disorders, fractures, ligament tears, spinal injuries and degenerative diseases. Accidents are one of the primary reasons pets sustain orthopedic injuries - many dogs suffer broken bones or torn ligaments from being hit by cars. Overuse and repetitive stress can also damage joints, bones and muscles over time. Certain breeds have a genetic predisposition to certain conditions like hip dysplasia as well. Obesity is another risk factor that can exacerbate orthopedic problems by placing extra stress on the limbs, spine and joints.

Treating Fractures and Broken Bones

Veterinary Orthopedics a pet fractures or breaks a bone, timely veterinary treatment is essential. The vet will perform a physical exam and request diagnostic images like x-rays to determine the location and severity of the fracture. Based on the type of break, minimally displaced fractures may be treated conservatively with rest, a splint or cast. More complex fractures involving significant bone fragments may require surgery to realign and stabilize the bones using metal plates, screws or pins. Pets usually wear a post-op splint or cast for 4-8 weeks to allow the fracture site to heal fully. Medications help manage pain and may include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Physical therapy can aid recovery once the splint is removed.

Ligament and Tendon Injuries

Soft tissue injuries to ligaments and tendons are also common orthopedic issues in pets. These supportive structures can tear or strain from overexertion, trauma or repetitive stress. A partial tear may heal on its own with rest, but a complete rupture often necessitates surgical repair. The vet trims away any damaged tissue and reconnects the torn ends of the ligament using permanent sutures or synthetic grafts. Rehabilitation aims to strengthen the repair site gradually over several months. Unfortunately, some complex tears prove irreparable and may lead to long-term instability or arthritis if not addressed surgically at an early stage.

Canine Hip Dysplasia

Genetics predisposes certain large and giant breed dogs to develop hip dysplasia, an orthopedic condition where the hip joint fails to form properly. Abnormal cartilage and bone development within the hip socket and femoral head can lead to inflammation, pain, lameness and degenerative arthritis as the dog matures. Vets perform orthopedic examinations and request hip x-rays to diagnose dysplasia. Conservative options involve weight control, anti-inflammatory medications and joint supplements to slow disease progression. For severe cases not responsive to medical management, total hip replacement surgery may be recommended to alleviate pain and improve mobility. This complex procedure replaces affected hip joints with artificial implants.

Elbow Dysplasia in Dogs

Elbow dysplasia refers to abnormal elbow joint formation in young, fast-growing large and giant breed puppies. This group of orthopedic disorders includes fragmented coronoid process, medial compartment disease and ununited anconeal process. Puppies may show lameness in one or both rear legs, decreased activity levels and reluctance to jump or climb stairs due to joint pain. Radiographs help veterinarians diagnose the specific elbow issues present. Initial treatment focuses on restricting exercise and weight control using lean diets. Anti-inflammatory drugs may provide temporary relief and prevent further damage, but some cases require surgical treatment such as fragment removal or ligament repair to restore joint stability.

Treating Canine OCD

Osteochondritis dissecans or OCD is an orthopedic disease characterized by lesions on the articular surface of bones like the elbow, shoulder and stifle joint. In active, growing dogs OCD lesions develop as cracks in subchondral bone beneath the articular cartilage. Over time these fissures can fragment, forming loose bodies or flaps within the joint that cause pain, catching, swelling and lameness. Veterinarians diagnose OCD via orthopedic exam and diagnostic imaging to characterize lesion severity. For stable cases, treatment focuses on rehabilitation and pain management. Surgery may be recommended in unstable or advanced cases to remove loose fragments, drill holes to stimulate healing or transplant new cartilage. Post-op care involves restricted activity and physical therapy.

Feline Orthopedic Disorders

Cats have their fair share of musculoskeletal conditions too requiring veterinary attention. Hip dysplasia, though less common than in dogs, can cause lameness and arthritis if left untreated. Tibial plateau leveling osteotomy or TPLO surgery recontours the shinbone and stabilizes the stifle joint, commonly performed for torn cranial cruciate ligaments in cats’ rear legs. Degenerative joint disease or arthritis plagues many aging cats causing pain and mobility issues. Weight control, anti-inflammatory medications, laser therapy, acupuncture and supplements may mitigate signs. In rare severe cases with joint damage, total hip replacement or elbow arthroplasty surgeries provide pain relief for pets.

Rehabilitation after Orthopedic Injury or Surgery

Physiotherapy plays an important role in the rehabilitation process following orthopedic injuries, fractures or surgery. Veterinarians prescribe tailored at-home therapy programs using underwater treadmills, laser therapy, controlled exercise and massage to address specific orthopedic conditions. The goal is to restore range of motion, build strength and reduce swelling while promoting healing. As pets advance in their rehab protocol, activities are gradually increased in intensity over 4-8 weeks depending on musculoskeletal stability and pain levels. Timely rehabilitation not only improves clinical outcome, but also prevents long-term pent up energy from sabotaging the healing process in active pets. Strict cage rest is usually limited to the initial immobilization period only.

In the orthopedic issues encompass a wide range of musculoskeletal injuries and conditions affecting pets that often necessitate veterinary interventions. From sports injuries to developmental disorders to degenerative joint disease, timely treatment optimizes clinical outcomes. Surgical techniques continue advancing alongside rehabilitation methods, bringing new options for repairing fractures, stabilizing joints and managing chronic pain. With dedicated care by their veterinarian and guardian, pets stand the best chance to heal fully and resume quality lives after orthopedic injuries.

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Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemical and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/money-singh-590844163)