Hip dysplasia is one of the most common joint conditions affecting dogs, particularly in large and active breeds. It develops when the hip joint fails to form properly, causing instability, abnormal wear, and pain. Over time, it can significantly limit mobility and lead to early-onset arthritis.
Chiropractic care offers a focused, non-invasive method to manage this condition, helping your dog stay active longer without over-reliance on medication or surgery.
How Hip Dysplasia Affects Joint Health and Mobility
In a healthy canine hip, the femur ball fits snugly in the hip socket. In dogs with hip dysplasia, this connection is loose and unstable, leading to joint wear, chronic inflammation, and eventually arthritis. Factors like genetics, rapid growth in puppies, poor nutrition, or excessive exercise during development can contribute to the condition.
While symptoms may not appear early, as hip dysplasia progresses, you might notice:
- Difficulty getting up or lying down.
- Limping or swaying in the hind limbs.
- Reluctance to jump, run, or climb stairs.
- Audible clicking from the hip joint.
- “Bunny-hopping” when running.
- Signs of pain or irritation when the hips are touched.
How Chiropractic Care Can Help Your Dog with Hip Dysplasia
Chiropractic care focuses on the alignment and function of joints, particularly the spine and pelvis. When a dog has hip dysplasia, they frequently modifies their gait to compensate for the pain, which puts more strain on other parts of the body.
Chiropractic adjustments help restore proper alignment, improve nervous system function, and reduce these secondary issues. While the condition itself can’t be reversed, it can ease discomfort and restore more normal movement patterns.
Chiropractic Care and Traditional Treatments
While chiropractic care is beneficial, it’s most effective when used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Together, these therapies create a holistic approach to managing hip dysplasia in your dog. This includes:
- Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces strain on the hip joints, which is crucial for dogs with hip dysplasia.
- Joint Supplements: Adding glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids to your dog’s diet can support joint health and reduce inflammation.
- Physical Therapy: Targeted physical therapy exercises can further strengthen the muscles around the hip and increase flexibility.
- Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or pain relievers prescribed by your vet can be used alongside chiropractic care to manage discomfort.
Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Dogs with Hip Dysplasia
By correcting misalignments in the spine and extremities, chiropractic adjustments offer a variety of benefits. This approach doesn’t involve medication or surgery, making it an appealing choice for long-term management.
Regular sessions also improve mobility by restoring range of motion in the affected joints, making it easier for your dog to move and stay active. Moreover, it addresses the root causes of discomfort, slowing the progression of joint degeneration and promoting long-term health and well-being as your dog ages.
What to Expect During a Chiropractic Visit for Your Dog
A chiropractic session for your dog begins with a comprehensive evaluation. This includes a review of your dog’s medical history and a hands-on exam to identify restricted joints, muscle tension, or postural abnormalities. A gait analysis may also be done to observe how your dog moves and where they may be compensating.
Using quick and controlled pressure, the chiropractor makes specific adjustments to misaligned joints. These adjustments are gentle and safe, and most dogs tolerate them very well, which often requires ongoing care.
Supporting Your Dog’s Chiropractic Progress at Home
To support their progress, make your home easier to navigate with non-slip rugs or ramps instead of stairs. Encourage low-impact activities like walking, swimming, and light play to keep them active without straining the hips.
Also, feed your dog a balanced diet and maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on their joints. These steps help maintain the benefits of chiropractic care and support long-term recovery.
Our certified professionals at Southern Touch Healthcare have specialized training in animal anatomy, neurology, and spinal manipulation. Schedule your visit and find chiropractors who understand how to tailor their treatments to their unique needs.
