Dog hip pain is a common problem for many dog owners. Hip pain is usually the result of hip dysplasia and/or arthritis. There are, however, several things which can help ease and manage dog hip pain.
The first thing you must do if you notice your dog has a new lameness or stiffness is visit your vet. Only they can diagnose the cause of your dog’s hip pain.
1) Massage Treatment for Dog Hip Pain
A professional massage treatment from a McTimoney Dog Chiropractor can do wonders to help ease your dog’s pain. When a dog has hip pain they show a gait abnormality which puts pressure on healthy functional muscles. These tense muscles then become areas of new pain. By easing these muscles it is possible to make your dog a lot happier.
It is even possible to do some basic massage at home with your dog. Gently rubbing around your dog hip joint, focusing on the stroke that leads towards your dog’s heart, can help move toxins trapped in the muscle by increasing blood flow and alleviating muscle tension.
2) Passive Motion Stretches
These can be done with your dog lying down or standing. Support your dog’s leg at the knee and ankle joint and make sure the leg is in line with their body. then move the leg gently backwards. When your dog is lying down gently rubbing their thigh muscles can also encourage this backwards stretch. Try to hold it for 30 seconds. When a dog has a painful weak hip joint the muscles that support the joint can become very tense causing the joint to become fixed. The lack of movement further restricts the joint resulting in a vicious cycle. This gentle stretch can help get your dog’s hip joint moving again. If your dog shows signs of pain please discontinue with this stretch.
3) Heat Packs
Heat is an excellent alleviator of pain and is easy to apply to your dog. A microwave heat pack is ideal for this. Please thoroughly test on your own skin before applying to your dog. Leave the heat on the dog’s hip for 10-15 minutes. It is ideal to do this before commencing with the passive motion stretches.
4) Joint Supplements
Joint supplements like Science Supplements can help nourish your dog’s joints and prevent further degradation. Turmeric is also an excellent natural anti-inflammatory and can be given to your dog daily.
5) Pain Medication
If both you and your vet feel it is necessary then your dog can be put on stronger pain medication, either short or long term. It’s important to look at the long term effects of pain medication carefully when deciding if this is an option for your dog. Surgery is also an option that can be discussed with your vet.
Book a McTimoney Canine Chiropractic Treatment
Areas covered in UK: Worcestershire and surrounding counties.
Book a McTimoney Canine Chiropractic Treatment or Call Emily Walters on 07983 565 438
