Large, fast-growing dogs are often at increased risk of hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED). In some breeds, up to 50% of dogs carry the genetic predisposition for the developmental disorder. But symptoms vary greatly between individuals.
Of course, the most important thing for the individual dog - and dog owner - is that it can live as symptom-free and active a life as possible despite its limitations. Gentle exercise strengthens the muscles and helps the dog to regulate its body weight, which both reduces the strain on weakened joints and helps to stabilise them.
Back on Track's dog products contain a therapeutic technology that reflects body heat in the form of infrared energy (FIR - Far InfraRed), which is well known to help relieve joint and muscle problems. If the dog experiences less discomfort when moving, it will also be easier for it to maintain a healthy activity level - and maximise its quality of life!
What happens in the joint?
Hip- and elbow dysplasia means that the joints grow in an abnormal way so that their various constituent structures eventually do not fit together. The problems occur during the dog's rapid growth period between 4 and 10 months.
This leads to joint laxity, instability and dysfunctional biomechanics. As a result, there is a risk that the bones and surrounding tissues will be stressed and worn in a harmful and destructive way - and the dog will be in pain. The cartilage in the joints degenerates and the body may try to compensate with growths on the bone. Over time, many affected dogs develop osteoarthritis as a consequence of the misuse and abnormal wear and tear.
The fact that the developmental disorder is hereditary has led to ongoing efforts to remove these genes from the affected dog breeds through responsible breeding programmes. The Swedish Kennel Club (SKK) therefore x-rays, assesses and records the dog's hip and elbow joint status as part of their work for the future genetic health of dogs.
Symptoms
Because the skeletal elements are not in the correct position in relation to each other, there is a continuous misalignment. This in turn leads to improper use of the musculoskeletal system with consequent muscle tension and problems in the surrounding tissues of the joints. Joints can become stiff, sore and more easily displaced from their normal position.
The symptoms of osteoarthritis are typical and similar to those of humans: stiffness, pain and inflammation, which makes the dog avoid certain movements, try to shift its body weight away from the defective joints and show less enthusiasm for physical activity. However, like humans suffering from osteoarthritis, dogs need to remain physically active to maintain their muscle strength, stabilise their joints and improve their general condition. This is where dog owners can make an important contribution, by providing gentle exercise from a young age.
Read more about osteoarthritis in dogs >>
Can hip- and elbow dysplasia be prevented?
Unfortunately, it is difficult to know in advance which dogs will be affected - or how, when and to what extent the condition may develop - as the expression of the hereditary growth disorder is highly influenced by environmental factors.
It is clear from studies that both exercise and feeding - particularly during the important growth phase - are crucial factors in the eventual development of disease. A diet with inadequate nutritional content as well as excessive body weight can both contribute to the development and aggravation of hip- and elbow dysplasia.
What can be done to alleviate the symptoms?
If your dog has symptoms of hip- or elbow dysplasia - or if it has been diagnosed by an X-ray - there are a number of things a dog owner can do to improve their dog's quality of life. You can make life easier by adapting your home and reducing pain and inflammation with medication. In more severe cases, the dog may need surgery.
Exercise is important but should be gentle and mild, focusing on strengthening the muscles around weak joints. Physiotherapy can also be used to improve the dog's well-being. Massage increases blood circulation, softens tissues and reduces muscle tension. A dog coat keeps the dog warm and protects it in cold weather.
Pain-relieving therapy methods such as infrared light can also be used, with the instrument aimed at the site of pain and inflammation. Infrared light helps healing by transmitting energy into the tissues.
How do Back on Track's textile technologies work?
Back on Track's dog coats and joint supports contain minerals that absorb the low-intensity infrared (FIR) energy radiating from the dog's body as part of the body heat. The minerals then re-radiate this beneficial form of energy, which penetrates the tissues and stimulates circulation and blood flow.
This is the principle behind Back on Track's textile technologies, which are often experienced as relieving problems of stiffness, pain and inflammation in muscles and joints. The increased blood flow supports the body's own healing processes, softening and helping to efficiently oxygenate the tissues.
As the only source of energy is the dog's own body heat, this form of infrared is at the far end of the infrared spectrum (hence the 'far' in Far InfraRed). The energy it carries with it has an observable therapeutic effect, but is not as powerful as the wavelengths used in light therapy - with infrared being emitted from an instrument powered by electricity. Instead, textiles have the advantage of being worn on the body and remain in contact with the skin for a long period of time.
Discover our beneficial products for dogs!
Our dog coats, braces and supports are designed to relieve and prevent problems in your dog's muscles and joints. All our dog coats contain our textile technologies, incorporated into the material closest to the dog. While protecting the dog from the elements, the product will also have a stimulating effect on the dog's blood flow and circulation. Our braces and supports work in the same way. Whilst supporting the joints, the FIR effect works deep down in sore tissues.
Our products are designed to increase the well-being of dogs and contribute to their mobility. When dogs experience less discomfort, it will also be easier for them to remain physically active - which in itself leads to a host of health benefits!