Opal is a dog that I hadn`t seen for over 12 months after she had suffered a suspected cruciate ligament injury.  Previously she had a joint replacement in the opposite knee after suffering advanced degenerative joint disease (arthritis) after suffering a similar injury in that leg.

Her regular Vet had been treating the problem with anti-inflammatory drugs but unfortunately the knee was progressively becoming more arthritic and painful and another joint replacement was reccomended.

When I saw Opal her knee was thickened, stiff and painful and there was also significant muscle wasting from lack of use. Much of the time Opal was only walking on three legs. Chiropractic problems were also developing in her pelvis and lower spine from compensating for the pain. Medication was no longer providing adequate comfort.

Opal was treated with a combination of Acupuncture and Chiropractic techniques and asked to revisit in 1 week. At the next visit the change was dramatic. Opal was much happier and much more comfortable. She was using her leg near normally again. A chronic problem such as this will require ongoing care to manage the problem well and keep her comfortable.

Arthritic problems are common in our pets both as part of an ageing process or following joint injury. Cruciate ligament disease is extremely common in dogs of all sizes and often surgery is indicated. Scientific evidence suggests that dogs less than 15kg will respond very well to non surgical treatment while dogs over 15kg will do better with surgery. Once there is advanced arthritic changes in the joint it is unlikely that surgery will help and pain management with Acupuncture can be very helpful.

Additional support for arthritic joints can be achieved with the use of Omega 3 fish oil, glucosamine and the drug Cartrophen which is a disease modifying agent. Weight control and exercise management is also very important.