There are several causes for hip pain in dogs. Arthritis is the most common reason for joint pain in middle-aged and senior dogs. Hip dysplasia can manifest in dogs as young as 1 year old. Less common causes include panosteitis (growing pains), injury and autoimmune diseases. Treatment depends on the cause but will always include pain control medication for the dog's comfort. There are some effective shots for easing hip pain.
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Diagnosing Hip Pain
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Hip dysplasia happens when the dog's hip socket and ball joint don't fit together. In severe cases, the joint pops out of the socket. Milder cases can be managed with exercise and diet. Dysplasia usually leads to early arthritis and hip pain.
There are several forms of arthritis. By far, the most common is osteoarthritis, afflicting the majority of senior dogs to some degree. No matter what your dog's age, any limp or stiffness that lasts more than a day should be evaluated by your veterinarian. Any treatment plan will include pain management.
Because dogs can't tell us exactly where it hurts, it can be difficult to tell if rear lameness originates in the hip, knee or ankle. Hip pain is most often characterized by a "bunny hopping" gait, especially when the dog first gets up from a nap or after exercise.
Adequan Shots
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Adequan is an intramuscular injectable form of the oral joint supplement glucosamine. The active ingredient is polysulfated glycosaminoglycan. Like glucosamine, it lubricates the joint and reduces painful inflammation. A "loading dose" of shots every 4 to 7 days for 1 to 2 months is followed by monthly shots for the life of the dog. Adequan is a prescription medication. If the owner is experienced with giving intramuscular injections, it can be ordered in bulk and administered at home.
Side effects are minimal. Some dogs experience temporary stomach upset after each shot. In rare cases, Adequan may reduce blood platelet counts and is not recommended for dogs with bleeding or clotting disorders.
Cartrophen Shots
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Cartrophen (sodium pentosan polysulfate or NaPPS) shots not only lessen inflammation but alter the mechanism of the neural pain receptors, thus reducing pain in two ways. Cartrophen is injected into the muscles surrounding the affected joint at weekly intervals for 4 weeks. Beneficial effects can last for several months. When the dog starts showing signs of pain, the cycle is repeated.
Cartrophen is well tolerated, and side effects are extremely rare. Like Adequan, it should not be used on dogs with blood or clotting disorders.
Cortisone Shots
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Cortisone and corticosteroids have no direct effect on joint lubrication or mobility. However, as one of the most potent anti-inflammatory medications available, it reduces hip pain by reducing the inflammation causing it. Cortisone is also used for dogs with severe allergies.
Because of the potentially toxic effect of cortisone on the liver and kidneys, it is usually used as a drug of last resort. Cortisone shots are given near the painful joint, and frequency of the shots depends on how effective they are and how well tolerated. Typically, they are administered every 4 to 6 months.
Other side effects include increased appetite and thirst. Cortisone also weakens the dog's immune system, making him more prone to secondary infections and illnesses.
Complementary Therapy and Management
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Often these shots are given in conjunction with other prescription medications and therapies. There are several supplements that are useful for hip pain, including glucosamine, chrondroitin and fish oil. Always talk to your veterinarian before starting a supplement regimen.
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