Hip Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia is the abnormal development of the hip joint and in it’s most severe form can cause crippling lameness and painful arthritis. Two things are commonly abnormal; firstly the head of the femur isn’t held tightly enough by the acetabulum, because the joint is loose it moves around too much causing wear and tear. Secondly the head of the femur or the acetabulum are misshapen not smooth and round which also causes abnormal wear and tear of the joint.
Hip Dysplasia is the single most common cause of arthritis in the hip. There are different schools of thought as to the causes, some arguing it’s genetic and others that it’s cause by damage to the soft tissue surrounding the joint when the dog is young. It’s associated with large breeds e.g German Shepards although any dog can develop the condition.
Symptoms:
Stiffness and soreness when arising from rest
Stiffness in the back legs after exercise or first thing in the morning although in milder cases dogs will warm up out of stiffness
Reluctance to exercise or take part in normal daily activities e.g. climbing stairs, jumping in and out of car
An abnormal gait such as intermittent lameness, bunny hopping
As the condition worsens the pain will increase and most dogs will start to lose muscle tone in the hip area
Massage:
Assists in pain relief
Relives tension build up
Significantly relives soreness
Lymphatic drainage helps reduce inflammation around the coxofemoral joint
Helps mobility/flexibility
Helps the overcompensating limb and corrects muscle balance