Download Hip Dysplasia Information - holistic animal physiotherapy

Brooke Marsh – APA Animal Physiotherapist (BPhty, MAnimSt, MAPA, MAPG)
Masters of Animal Physiotherapy
PH: 0408 022 660
Email: [email protected]
PHYSIOTHERAPY MANAGEMENT OF:
HIP DYSPLASIA
Hip dysplasia is a complex condition of the coxofemoral (hip) joint with multifactorial
genetic and environmental components. It is the most common heritable
orthopaedic problem seen in dogs. Hip dysplasia is associated with joint instability,
which can lead to degenerative changes (osteoarthritis) and varying degrees of
dysfunction and pain.
There are several surgical options to treat Hip Dysplasia – all of which will benefit
from post op physiotherapy to aid healing, but more importantly restore stability and
strength to the joint. As with humans, strengthening and stability retraining is vital
for any problems around the spine and pelvis. Following some surgeries, studies
have shown that more than 60% of cases are unable to regain normal muscle mass
and have reduced peak propulsive force in gait. Compensatory loading of the
opposite hip is also well documented following surgery.
Conservative measures for Hip Dysplasia
Physiotherapy management has been shown widely in human literature to reduce
pain, improve the muscle imbalance around the hip and pelvis to better position the
femoral head (ball) in the socket and therefore slow down the process of
Degenerative joint disease. The same applies to the dog or cat.
Physiotherapy techniques aim to reduce impact and pain; encourage weight loss
(if required); improve range, stimulate cartilage metabolism, joint stability and
strength. Owner education and the provision of a home program is vital for this to
be effective. This will aid to reduce the reliance on NSAIDs with long term
secondary complications.
Diet and weight – 5 year studies of the effects of limited food consumption on Hip
Dysplasia in growing dogs has been shown to reduce the development of
Osteoarthritis. Weight reduction alone has been shown to result in substantial
improvement in clinical lameness. Physiotherapy will reinforce this need with the
owners, to control their symptoms. A controlled exercise program (including
underwater treadmill) has shown vast results for weight loss and control of pain and
lameness.
Hip Dysplasia and other joint pathologies
In human literature it is well documented that the muscles that affect the pelvis,
deep hip muscles (glut min/med/ quad fem) also have a direct effect on the patellofemoral and tibio-femoral joint (knee). Therefore injuries of the hip (including OA)
can result in patella-femoral dysfunction and vice versa. Control of both these
problems continues to be a challenge for dog breeders and vets. Accurate
application of a stability and strengthening program (focussing on the deep hip
capsule muscles) can correct and further prevent other biomechanical issues of the
lower limb in the dog. Back and shoulder pain due to compensatory gait pattern
and muscle imbalance is also very common.
When?
Reduced pelvic muscle mass and altered muscle fibre size and composition has been
found in as young as 8 week old dogs with Congenital Hip Dysplasia. The critical
time for the greatest growth and development of the hip has been shown to be 3-8
months old. Therefore it is vital to educate EARLY and work on prevention, to
normalise the muscle imbalance, reduce muscle abnormalities causing abnormal
positioning of the femoral head (ball) in the socket; gait changes; to relieve stresses
on soft tissues; reduction of thickening of joint capsule and thus pain and
dysfunction presenting as Osteoarthritis in later stages. EARLY is the key!!
CONSULTATION
Brooke provides a thorough assessment (1.5 hours), including hands-on/manual
treatment, acupuncture, advice and provision of home program. The underwater
treadmill is brilliant to improve hindlimb strength, whilst reducing load on the joint.
This is highly recommended as part of your rehabilitation process. If your dog is
water anxious, Brooke can help train them to be comfortable in your own water
environment. She is available for advice for ongoing management at any stage.
Following consultations are 30-45 minutes.
Where?
North Coast Veterinary Specialists (NCVS) – Tanawha Sunshine Coast
LOOKING FOR FURTHER INFORMATION?
Why not take a look at Brooke's webpage www.holisticanimalphysio.com.au
HOW TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT: You should speak with your regular vet
about physiotherapy and ask for a referral, once you have done this making an
appointment is easy, simply call Brooke on 0408 022 660 to schedule a time for your
pet. She can answer any further questions you may have about your dog’s
rehabilitation.