Treatments For Canine Arthritis
Unfortunately, as dogs age, they become susceptible to the same degenerative problems that we do, which means that arthritis among older dogs is extremely common. In some cases, this can lead to excruciating pain and can become crippling. The most common drugs prescribed for canine arthritis are NSAI (non-steroid anti-inflammatory) drugs. These can be beneficial in reducing swelling and alleviating pain, but can also offer unpleasant side effects.
Fortunately, there are a variety of natural treatments available, which do not pose the risk of negative side effects and are proven to be extremely effective in treating cases of arthritis in both humans and dogs.
How to Treat Canine Arthritis with Physical Therapy
The term ‘physical therapy' covers a number of treatment techniques. The methods used will vary depending on the severity of a dog's condition, its age and a number of other considerations. However, treatment options include:
Chiropractic Therapy - Like chiropractic treatment among humans, it is intended to improve the strength and mobility of joints. It will also help to relieve pain and inflammation.
Massage - One of the most common forms of natural arthritis treatment, massage will help to reduce inflammation, increase circulation and alleviate muscle tension. Often owners will be shown how to perform massage, so it can be performed at home daily.
Heat Therapy - Used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
Acupuncture - An ancient Chinese treatment, acupuncture is used for a whole range of ailments. In treating arthritis it is believed to relieve pain and improve overall neurological function.
Passive Range Motion - Passive range motion is a series of gentle exercises that aim to increase the range of motion, decrease inflammation and ease pain.
Hydro or Water Therapy - Gentle exercises performed in water can help to increase strength and mobility.
Treatment for Canine Arthritis: Laser Therapy
A great many veterinarians have the equipment to perform laser therapy. Subsequently, it is becoming a more widespread treatment choice. By exposing the arthritic area, or areas, to photon beams, vets can affect the cells, reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. The treatment provides a warm sensation to the area being treated and is completely painless.
Although laser therapy has been used with great results, it will not necessarily work for all dogs. In addition, the length and strength of treatment will very much depend on your dog's individual symptoms.
How Magnets Can Help Arthritis
Magnetic therapy is thought of as quite a ‘new age' treatment, but it has been proven to be incredibly beneficial in the treatment of arthritis in both humans and animals. Like all of the above treatment options, magnetic therapy is entirely pain free and simply involves placing magnets at specific points on the body.
It is unclear exactly why, but the magnets help to increase circulation, which is of great help reducing pain and improving an arthritis sufferer's mobility.
Supplements and Herbal Remedies
There are a number of joint care products available in the form of doggie treats, all of which are thought to be helpful in preventing the onset of arthritis in mature dogs. It is a good idea to look for products that contain glucosamine or chondrioten, as these are particularly beneficial.
Possible herbal remedies include feverfew, skullcap, yucca, ginger and licorice, all of which can be bought from good health stores. All of these natural products can be placed into the dog's food and could help to reduce the swelling of arthritic joints and alleviate some of your dog's pain.
However, it is advisable to seek the advice of a veterinarian before selecting any treatment choice for your dog.
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