Focus on Joint Disease: Elbow Dysplasia

Limping on the front RIGHT leg (Image Source)

Conditions affecting the joints are very common in our pets today. Some of this comes from breed predisposition and their genetics. It can also be exacerbated by excess weight that many of our pets carry around today. Today we are going to focus on the elbow. While this is not the first joint we think about when we begin to think of joint issues it can still cause frequent issues and is a leading cause of lameness in the front legs.

 

Here are some of the conditions that can affect the elbow (Image Source)

The elbow joint is made up of three different bones. This include the humerus with is the big bone that comes from the shoulder down to the elbow. The radius and ulna are the smaller bones located lower on the arm. If there is a problem with any of these bones (and sometimes all three) during development it can lead to discomfort when walking. Some severe cases may be seen when patients are young, some may be mild but repeated use of the joint leads to arthritis (or chronic inflammation in the joint) as they age.

 

Basset Hounds typically have slightly turned out front legs (Image Source)

As mentioned above there are several breeds that seem to be more likely affected with elbow disease than others. This includes many of our large breed dogs or breeds referred to as chondrodystrophic (think of the basset hound with their crooked front legs).

 

This patient is ready for a CT scan (Image Source)

There are many ways to diagnose elbow disease. Many times starting with an x-rays to rule out other causes of limping is a good idea. Sometimes it is difficult to assess joints fully without giving patients mild sedation. Even with sedation it may be necessary to use advanced imaging such as a CT (computed tomography) to get a clear picture of the joint. In some cases surgical examination of the elbow by a board certified orthopedic surgeon may be necessary.

 

Soft bedding may also help pets rest comfortably (Image Source)

Once elbow dysplasia has been diagnosed there are things that can be done to help manage and keep their discomfort under control. This includes ensuring that they do not get over weight (a very common theme with any joint disease). Also regular controlled exercise will help keep the joints and muscles strong. Joint supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin may be recommended by your veterinarian. During bad days some pain medication may also be prescribed to help keep pain to a minimum.

Joint disease is not uncommon in our pets and elbow dysplasia is a common cause of front leg lameness in our pets. There are many things we can do to help keep our pets comfortable and happy. For more information on this condition you can visit the following website here.