Options like pain medications, joint supplements for dogs, physical therapy, laser therapy for dogs, and acupuncture can all help relieve arthritis pain in dogs. There isn't a particular treatment that is superior to the others.
Oral supplements that contain methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), glucosamine hydrochloride, long-chain omega-3 fatty acids—eicosatetraenoic acid (ETA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)—and chondroitin sulfate are known for supporting dog joint health.
With support from orthopedic braces, a healthy diet, regular exercise, as well as homeopathic support, your older dog may have many happy and healthy years ahead, free of back leg collapse. Talk to your vet and ask if a hip brace may alleviate your older dog's hind leg weakness.
Taking your dog for a walk is a great way to help them regain strength in its back legs. An older dog may not have the stamina it had when it was younger. A wheelchair is a great way to give your dog support on their daily walk.
Arthritis slowly worsens over time, but if well managed, most dogs can live happily for many years after diagnosis. Let your vet know if you think your dog's pain isn't well controlled or you see symptoms returning. There are lots of different pain relief and anti-inflammatory medicines.
In fact, the benefit of walking was shown to be similar to that of NSAIDs! The American College of Rheumatology recommends aerobic exercise, muscle strengthening and preservation of joint mobility as key components of managing arthritis naturally. These recommendations are also true for dogs with arthritis!
One of the most common reasons why older dogs become weak on their back legs is pain. Arthritis is extremely common in older dogs, especially large-breed ones, but it can be difficult to spot in the early stages.
Sudden onset of collapse can be secondary to a variety of disorders including spinal cord injury, orthopedic disease, or systemic illness. This sudden hind-leg weakness may be a sign of a disease that requires prompt attention from your regular veterinarian. Or even a trip to the emergency room.
Diseases like muscle and joint pain, neurologic conditions and even metabolic conditions that can cause weakness can lead to problems with their back legs. One common cause that we see can be a progression of joint, muscle and bone disorders. Statistically, most senior dogs develop some amount of arthritis as they age.
Sadly, most dogs with degenerative myelopathy eventually lose control of their legs, bladder and bowels completely, and need to be put to sleep. The average life expectancy of a dog with degenerative myelopathy is 1-2 years from diagnosis.
Vestibular Disease
A dog's balance is regulated by its vestibular system located in the brain as well as in the inner and middle ear. Vestibular disease is the main reason why an older dog may experience a sudden loss of balance and an inability to stand or walk normally.
However, if your dog is having a hard time walking without your help or is struggling to get around, they must go to see their veterinarian. Only a pet professional can diagnose your dog and ensure you know how to care for your best friend.
Inflammatory foods to avoid
Foods high in omega-6 fatty acids like corn, soy and sunflower oil, as well as processed foods, can cause inflammation. Additionally, foods with added sugars, salt, and preservatives should be avoided.
PureFlax Flax Seed Oil and its high content of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids can help aid the tenderness and discomfort of stiff joints when added to the dog's diet.
That being said, here are some of the most common symptoms of joint pain that your pup may express: Lethargy. Limping and stiffness. Loss of Appetite.
Severe Arthritis, Stage 4
These symptoms will significantly impact the dog's quality of life. You will see severely abnormal limb loading, shifting of weight, restlessness when standing and a reluctance to move.
Potential causes include inner/middle ear infections, intoxication, strokes, tumors, infectious or inflammatory diseases (meningitis), idiopathic vestibular disease (also called “old dog” vestibular syndrome), or other less likely causes.
Treatment Alternatives for Hind Leg Weakness
Pain medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed. It is for pain relief and inflammation in the joints and muscles of the hind legs of your dog.
Nerves regenerate slowly and heal about 1 inch every month. Regaining full use of their back legs is possible, but the severity of the injury, whether it impacted the spines, nerves, or muscles, how quickly the dog receives treatment, and the location of the injury or spinal damage.
Dog Arthritis Symptoms
However, as the disease progresses and pain increases, it will become more evident that something is wrong. Some of the signs of arthritis in dogs include: Stiffness and difficulty getting up from a sitting or lying down position. Limping, trembling, or tenderness when walking.
Regular physical activity is paramount to the treatment of osteoarthritis both in humans and animals. A lifestyle of regular activity that is moderated away from intermittent extremes of exercise (such as long hikes on the weekends) and activities to which the pet is not conditioned is essential.
Never give any human pain medications to your dog unless directed to do so by your veterinarian. Dog-specific NSAIDs are commonly prescribed for arthritic dogs because they effectively reduce inflammation and relieve joint pain.
Your pet will get tired from all the worrying about his arthritis or osteoarthritis pain. That's why dogs with this condition will often end up sleeping all the time.