Using a technique with Oliver, who experiences
a form of shoulder arthritis.

THE IMPACT OF BODYWORK IN RELIEVING CANINE ARTHRITIS 

 In young dogs, signs of arthritis (also known as osteoarthritis) can be caused by issues that prevent the joint from developing properly, such as hip or elbow dysplasia and luxating patella,  just to name a few. Obesity plays a major role in the development of this condition in both young and old animals. The additional weight carried by an obese animal puts pressure on the joints and damages the cartilage so that it cannot properly protect the bone.

Several factors contribute to arthritis in older dogs. One of the most common is when the cartilaginous cushion between the bones begins to degrade and weaken due to wear and tear. Without the cushioning effect of the cartilage, the bones grind against each other causing pain and inflammation. Another contributing factor could be a fracture earlier in life resulting in weakness in the bone.

Arthritis (Osteoarthritis) in Dogs

Unbelievably, 20% of dogs become arthritic by the time they are a year old. As they age the number climbs to 80%, some sources estimate it to be even higher. Arthritis, also known as Osteoarthritis or Canine Joint Disease) can be caused by:

• Issues that prevent the joint from developing properly

• Hip, Elbow, or Shoulder Dysplasia

• Patellar Luxation

• Cranial Cruciate Rupture

• Fracture or other trauma

Obesity can also play a major role in the development of this condition in both young and old animals. The additional weight carried by an obese animal puts pressure on the joints and stresses the cartilage so that it cannot properly protect the bone.

Several factors contribute to arthritis in older dogs. There is a cartilaginous sac filled with fluid (known as synovial fluid) located between bones where they come together to form joints. The synovial sac functions to cushion the bones and allow optimum, pain-free movement. As the dog ages, this sac begins to degrade and lose fluid, allowing the ends of the bones to come in contact with each other. Without the cushioning effect of the cartilage, the bones grind against each other causing pain and inflammation.                                                                                                                                                                                              

Addressing Mo's spondylosis, a type of arthritis in the spine.

                                                               

BODYWORK CAN HELP RELIEVE ARTHRITIS BY:

• Reducing inflammation, swelling, and pain in the joints

• Stimulating the body to release endorphins—proteins that act as natural pain-killers

• Encouraging blood circulation, bodywork increases the amount of oxygen and nutrition reaching the tissue

• Regularly used it can aid in the prevention of trigger points (a combination of lactic acid build-up and the irritation of motor nerve endings)

• And much more

Regardless of the contributing factors, bodywork and massage can aid in the management of your dog’s arthritis by:

• Reducing the inflammation, swelling, and pain in the joints.

• Stimulating the body to release endorphins—proteins that act as natural painkillers.

• Encouraging blood circulation, massage increases the amount of oxygen and nutrition reaching the tissues.

• Regularly used, massage can aid in the prevention of trigger points (a combination of lactic acid build-up and the irritation of motor nerve endings)

Many dog owners have found that regular bodywork sessions enhance their dog’s mobility. It is a helpful tool in their arsenal of arthritis management strategies. Although a discussion of the multitude of management strategies is beyond the scope of this article, I would be remiss if I didn't mention the success many owners have had with CBD oils. Click here for an in-depth discussion of them.

Article: A Guide to CBD for Dogs and Cats Part 1 and 2, by Adored Beast Team:

Part 1, https://blog.adoredbeast.com/a-guide-to-cbd-for-dogs-and-cats-part-1/

Part 2, https://blog.adoredbeast.com/cbd-oil-for-pets-part-2-how-to-use-it/

For more information or to schedule a session for your dog, please contact Jill Deming at                                                                       jilldeming8@gmail.com.