Arthritis is a painful progressive degenerative process affecting joints.  While it is still mainly a problem seen in our older pets it is also a common complication of orthopedic injury in any age patient.  Since arthritis is a condition which cannot be cured proper long term management becomes very important.

In its milder forms management can be a simple as periodic medical therapy and consistent exercise but it its more severe forms chronic pain can be so debilitating that our pets will become less active and more withdrawn.  The lack of exercise and effects of disuse lead to continued muscle loss and decline.  This debilitating disease can steal quality of life from our companions. 

In the moderate to severe cases the benefits of rehabilitation medicine are tremendous.  By combining the control of chronic pain with the reversal of disuse the arthritic patient can return to a more enjoyable life. 

The goal of arthritic management is to eliminate chronic pain, recondition and strengthen weakened muscles so that you are able to continue a therapeutic exercise program at home.  Dr. Wall will work with you and your veterinarian to detail a program for this.