The symptoms of elbow dysplasia are usually very obvious. Nevertheless, I often see quadrupeds in which the disease remains undetected. In elbow dysplasia, the ulna, radius, and humerus do not fit together perfectly. This can happen in several ways.
The following deformities of the elbow joint are often present in ED
– A fragmented coronoid process (FCP for short). This is a detachment of the internal coronoid process of the ulna – osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD for short). This means a cartilage detachment at the inner rolling hump of the humerus – An isolated proces anconeus (short IPA), There is a detachment of the ulnar process of the ulna.
Usually both elbows are affected. Whereby one usually becomes noticeable earlier.
How does elbow dysplasia occur??
Although elbow dysplasia is a hereditary condition. But factors such as improper diet have a great influence on the expression (too much energy, calcium or vitamin D). They favor a too fast growth. Too much and incorrect physical activity in the first months of life also promotes ED. By the way, male dogs are more often affected due to their higher body weight. In general, it is mostly medium to large breeds that suffer from ED. Examples are Labrador and Golden Retrievers and Newfoundlands. But Rottweiler, German Shepherd and Bernese Mountain Dog are also affected.
What are the symptoms? Young dogs show between the fourth. Seventh month of life first signs. If the joint is slightly misaligned, osteoarthritis may be the only sign of ED.
– The elbow joint shows a clear restriction of movement. – The movement of the elbow joint is very painful. – The elbow is pressed close to the body. – As a result, the paw is turned outwards. – Dogs are often sensitive to touch at the elbow. – The elbow joint is swollen and heated. Frequent licking. Nibbling dogs at the joint.
You may also experience these signs:
– An early onset sign is stiffness in the morning. – Many dogs have start-up difficulties after resting. – Lameness appears. They can be permanent, but also intermittent. – Affected dogs are often reluctant to move. – Many dogs avoid things like getting into the car. – Muscles on the front legs become weaker. – In turn, the muscles in the back and hind legs become tense.
If your dog shows one or more of the signs, I recommend that you take him to your veterinarian.
You want to know what exercises help your dog with elbow dysplasia? Then I recommend you my article 2 ACTIVE EXERCISES FOR ELLBOGENDYSPLASIA.