JOINT PROBLEMS ARTHRITIS

Is a condition where there is articular cartilage damage within a joint. There may be damage to the synovial membrane which secretes synovial fluid. There may be changes to the viscosity of synovial fluid, development of spurs at joint margin and inflammation. Common in older animals usually as a result of injury or injury.

While alternative remedies offer preventative measures and may relieve symptoms, a cure for the condition can in no way be guaranteed

Causes:

These may include:

·         Physical damage after a severe sprain, fracture, infection or a degenerative condition (free radical damage)

·         Accumulation of uric acid salts in joint and cartilage.

·         Over loading the system with high energy feed. Excess protein leading to increased blood ammonia conc.

·         Vitamin D in excess which leads to calcium deposits in blood vessels, decreased ability to exercise and poor bone development.

·         Low levels of prostaglandin E1 which is produced by the body and is responsible for stopping the release of damaging enzymes that are released during the inflammatory phase.

·         Higher levels of the inflammation-promoting prostaglandin E2.

Clinical signs:

·         Stiff and reluctant to move at beginning of exercise improving as dog warms up

·         Heat and distension of joint and pain on flexion.

·         May have joint enlargement due to fibrous tissue and new bone production

·         Symptoms are worse in the morning and when the weather is cold.

·         Stiffness evident after rest and worse for cold and damp.

Treatment:

There is no cure for arthritis and related problems. Aims of treatment will address

·         Pain relief and to manage inflammation. To increase levels of prostaglandin E1

·         The reduction of joint capsule and soft tissue inflammation. To encourage cartilage regeneration.

·         To improve lubrication of the joint and viscosity of synovial fluid.

·         To stimulate production of sodium hyaluronate by synovial membrane

Alternative Preventative and Herbal Treatment.

• Place your dog onto a natural feed program avoiding proprietary feeds.

• Give your pet bitter herbs to stimulate the digestive system.

• Rest during acute stage with massage over the affected areas.

• Reduce inflammation by taking Omega 3 fatty acid daily will balance the  production of  prostaglandins.

• Restore viscosity (thickness) of synovial fluid a daily dose of glucosamine sulphate. Dosage rates according to weight.

• Address free radical damage damage by increasing levels of antioxidants by adding fresh vegetables and herbs to food

• Flush the kidneys and toxins by providing diuretic herbs like cleavers, dandelion, nettle and parsley root.

• Manage pain with Devil's Claw, white willow bark, feverfew etc.

• Improve blood circulation with gingko, yarrow and rosemary.

• Half tsp of kelp added to food daily will provide minerals in the correct balance.

DISCLAIMER: Hira Laboratories will not be held responsible for the use or misuse of any products listed. We recommend that either a qualified herbalist or your animal professional carry out diagnosis and subsequent treatment. Herbal remedies must not be given not be taken in conjunction with other medication with out consulting a medical professional.