Hip Dysplasia & the Benefits of Physical Rehabilitation

Hip Dysplasia is the “mother of all orthopedic diseases”. In total over 70% of all dogs are affected. Hip Dysplasia occurs when a dog’s hip joints don’t develop correctly allowing the Femoral head to partially dislocate. Over time the joint wears down, causing damage to the joint itself. Signs of Hip Dysplasia and arthritis can begin to show at any any age. Dogs of all ages may suffer from Hip Dysplasia or experience long-lasting effects.

Signs & Symptoms Your Dog Has Hip Dysplasia

There are several Hip Dysplasia symptoms and over time they can reduce of your pet's quality of life and mobility.

Among the most common symptoms are:

Pain
Stiffness
Loss of Thigh Muscle Mass
Narrowing Stance in Hind Legs
"Bunny Hopping" Gait
Decreased Activity
Decreased Range of Motion
Trouble Rising or Climbing Stairs
Difficulty with Jumping or Running

The good news is that there are treatment options and devices available to help! Many of which are very manageable. A few of those options include weight reduction, Physical Rehabilitation or therapy, medication, wearing a hip support brace, and hip surgery.

The most common surgeries performed to correct severe Hip Dysplasia are: Femoral Head Osteotomy (FHO), Total Hip Replacement (THR) or Double/Triple Pelvic Osteotomy.

Diagnosing Hip Dysplasia

To diagnose your dog's hip dysplasia, your vet will physically exam your dog, as well as order radiographs and perform manual tests on your dog's hips.

Every dog is different, and the age they are diagnosed can very greatly. Pets can be diagnosed with hip dysplasia as young as 5 months old and may not show any signs of hip pain until their geriatric years.

Hip Dysplasia Severity

Your Vet or Rehab professional will help to determine your dog's treatment plan and will vary depending on the severity of your dog's hip dysplasia. Veterinarians rank hip health and the extent of the dysplasia based on the following rankings:

Excellent

A normal, fully functioning hip is considered 'Excellent'. In a healthy hip, the femoral head fits tightly into a well-formed hip socket with minimal space between the head of the femur and the acetabulum. A dog with 'Excellent' hips have full range of motion and no hip pain.

Mild Hip Dysplasia

The distance between the ball and socket of the hip increases as the ligaments that hold them together develop tears and begin to stretch, reducing the stability of the joint. In many cases, a dog with mild hip dysplasia will require monitoring and may need pain medication later in life.

Moderate Dysplasia

The rounded femur head barely rests inside the socket and arthritic changes become evident. Such as partial or occasional lameness, or pain when running or moving. Dog's at this stage may require anti-inflammatories, pain medication, and possible surgery.

Severe Dysplasia

The head of the femur is completely dislocated from the joint. The dog may be unable to walk, or only with great difficulty. Pets with severe hip dysplasia may require surgery.

Physical Rehab for Hip Dysplasia

Rehab therapy is a great alternative and more conservative approach to treating your pet's Hip Dysplasia. Most importantly, you can improve your pet’s overall movement and comfort by combining different techniques and modalities. The Therapist will create a customized treatment plan for your pet based off of their needs and condition.

Rehab Treatment benefits include:

Decreased Pain
Improved Range of Motion and Flexibility
Weight Loss and Increased Muscle Tone
Increased Strength and Movement
Overall Improved Health, both mental and physical

Rehab Therapy Methods

Hydrotherapy: used as a tool to exercise and increase muscle mass without having the dog bearing weight on the affected limb or limbs. Reducing stress on the body and encouraging ease of movement.

Laser therapy: a therapeutic treatment used to decrease and manage hip pain while accelerating the healing process.

Manual therapy: a combination of stretching and massage techniques to improve range of motion and reduce joint inflammation.

Acupuncture: an effective treatment option to decrease the pain associated with arthritis and joint diseases.

There are so many exercise possibilities! Balance discs, physio balls, weaving, and underwater treadmills are just a few. Your Rehabilitation professional will guide you through the process of this effective conservative approach and develop the right plan for you and your pet.

Since Hip Dysplasia effects such a high percentage of dogs, it's important to know there are options beyond surgery. And with time and a commitment to therapy, and with your help, your dog will be able to manage their hip and joint pain.

Mobility Support for Hip Dysplasia in Dogs

Hip Dysplasia can impact the way your dog walks and limit their activity level. Providing mobility support with products such as a dog wheelchair or lifting harness you can help your dog move and encourage exercise. Look for mobility support that will relieve pressure and reduce the weight your dog places on it's back legs. This will relieve pain and lessen an strain on your dog's hips while also making it easier for them to walk.