Elbow dysplasia is a general term used to describe a degenerative disease that affects dogs, according to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. The condition, which can cause lameness, may encompass any of several conditions, such as osteochondrosis, ununited anconeal process, fragmentation of the coronoid process and elbow incongruity. The long-term prognosis for elbow dysplasia is unsure and depends upon the extent of other conditions that are present. A veterinarian might diagnose elbow dysplasia based on an animal's symptoms.
Limping
An obvious limp can be a symptom of elbow dysplasia. A dog might extend the leg while walking or attempt to avoid applying pressure or bearing weight on it. Signs can be noticed when a dog is as young as 4 months; many dogs experience a worsening of symptoms between the ages of 6 and 12 months. After this period, symptoms may manifest occasionally, though they will be less severe, according to Doctors Foster and Smith at PetEducation.com. As the condition progresses and the dog matures, permanent arthritic changes may typically occur in the joint.
Pain and Swelling
Elbow dysplasia may cause pain and swelling in the joint. Pain can be evident after exertion, and you also might notice that your dog has some soreness after a period of rest, according to Dr. Henry De Boer Jr., a veterinarian at Pioneer Valley Veterinary Hospital in Western Massachusetts. Upon examining your dog's elbow joint, you might see minor to moderate swelling.
Treatment
If the elbow dysplasia includes osteochondrosis, a condition that causes abnormalities in the cartilage and the bone, treatments might include exercise, weight management and medications, such as NSAIDS (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), to reduce inflammation. In severe cases, and when united aconeal process occurs, surgery might be required. In some cases, a veterinarian might need to attach screws and pins to the ulnar bone.
