Understanding Canine Stifle Disease and Hip Dysplasia
Limping, stiffness, or trouble getting up? These can be normal signs of your dog “just getting older,” but they can be symptoms of stifle disease or hip dysplasia. Stifle disease and hip dysplasia are two common orthopedic conditions that cause hind leg pain and lameness in dogs. At Gursky Veterinary Services in Springtown, TX, we’re here to help you spot the signs early and offer treatment options that keep your dog active and comfortable.
Understanding the Canine Stifle Joint
The stifle joint is a dog’s version of a knee. It’s a complex joint that includes the femur, tibia, patella (kneecap), ligaments, and meniscus. Injuries or instability in this joint can lead to:
Limping or lameness
“Toe-touching” posture
Trouble rising or jumping
Swelling around the knee
One of the most common issues is a cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) tear, similar to an ACL tear in humans. This injury can happen suddenly or develop over time, especially in active or large-breed dogs.
What Is Hip Dysplasia?
Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition where the ball and socket of the hip joint don’t fit together properly. Over time, this poorly fitting joint begins to cause pain, inflammation, and arthritis. While often seen in larger breeds, including German Shepherds, Labradors, and Golden Retrievers, hip dysplasia can affect dogs of all sizes.
Signs of hip dysplasia include:
Stiffness after rest
Reluctance to run or climb stairs
“Bunny-hopping” gait
Swaying hips when walking
Difficulty standing after lying down
Diagnosis Starts with a Veterinary Exam
At Gursky Veterinary Services, we use a combination of physical exams and diagnostic imaging, like X-rays, to evaluate your dog’s joints. We assess muscle strength, range of motion, and gait to find the cause or your dog’s symptoms.
Treatment Options for Joint Health
There are several treatment options depending on the severity of your dog’s condition. These treatments may include:
Weight management and diet changes to reduce joint strain
Joint supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin
Anti-inflammatory or pain medications
Physical therapy or laser therapy
Surgery (such as TPLO for stifle disease or total hip replacement for advanced dysplasia)
Every case is different, and we’ll help you find the treatment plan that fits your pet’s needs, lifestyle, and age.
Why Early Detection Matters
Joint issues often start subtly, and the sooner they are diagnosed, the better the outcome. Early treatment options can reduce pain, prevent further damage, and delay or even avoid the need for surgery.
Keep Your Dog Moving with Gursky Veterinary Services
If your dog is slowing down, don’t write it off as aging. Let our team at Gursky Veterinary Services in Springtown, TX, take a closer look. We’ll help you understand what’s going on and how to best support your dog’s mobility and comfort for years to come.
