Arthritis
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In any species, age related wear and tear combine with any injuries to
result in damage within the joints. This causes varying degrees of
osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease. Ligament damage,
cartilage damage, and fractures involving the joints all contribute to
a roughened joint surface and a reduction in viscosity of joint fluid
which reduces its lubricating properties. New bone gets laid down in
and around the joints as part of a vicious circle which leads to
further roughening of the joint surfaces and loss of joint mobility.
The consequence is the development of stiffness and joint pain.
Some animals develop arthritic change in single joints after an injury,
whilst others develop it in multiple joints due to genetic factors,
overwork, obesity, or old age. Clinical examination combined with
further investigation can allow localisation of the sources of pain,
and radiography is very useful for allowing assessment of
affected joints. In rare cases surgical treatment may be helpful,
but most affected animals are treated medically. Some medications and nutraceuticals are used that aim to improve cartilage
repair and joint fluid viscosity, whilst other medicines are used to
reduce inflammation and provide pain relief. Physical therapies and
exercise can be used to try and maintain and improve mobility, and
acupuncture may also be used to give pain relief. Despite treatment,
arthritis worsens with time, but with multi-faceted treatment animals'
level of comfort and mobility can be maximised.