Featuring Zia, the GSD/Husky
Hip Dysplasia can be a scary diagnosis for a dog owner to hear and Chris was no exception! He was upset to hear his first dog, his life transforming girl, Zia has this condition. The x-rays, shown here, made it easy for him to understand the severity to which she has dysplasia. He also couldn’t stomach the recommendation for a 5 figure surgery cost financially. He felt he had no choice but to search out other ways to keep his beloved dog going. This led Chris to my office. After Zia’s first visit he texted me to say, “She seems to be walking better. I feel like I am dreaming but she even se3ems more content.” The following day he confirmed. “I am not dreaming. She is so much better today. Amazing! Thanks again.”
What is Hip Dysplasia?
The key to understanding hip dysplasia is to understand the hip joint itself. The hip is a ball and socket joint, with the ball being the head of the femur (thigh bone) and the socket (acetabulum) being the cup in the pelvis. When those two components grow in a mismatched fashion the joint misaligns and ceases to function properly.
One of the most common symptoms that comes along with hip dysplasia is pain. This can manifest itself in a number of ways, including limping, difficulty getting up after laying down, and even reluctance to move or jump around like normal. Veterinary chiropractors are trained to identify the source of pain and work on realigning the joints so that they function properly, reducing inflammation and providing much-needed relief from pain.
Restoring Mobility
In addition to relieving pain, veterinary chiropractors can also help restore mobility in dogs affected by hip dysplasia. By manipulating the joints back into proper alignment and addressing any muscle imbalances caused by the condition, it’s possible for your dog to regain full range of motion in its hips. This can give them more freedom of movement, allowing them to play without fear of further damage or discomfort.
Preventing Further Damage
Finally, veterinary chiropractic care can help prevent further damage from occurring due to hip dysplasia. By correcting any misalignments in your dog’s spinal column or joints before they become worse, it’s possible to reduce their risk for developing arthritis or other debilitating conditions later on in life.
Veterinary chiropractic is an excellent way for dog owners to manage their dog’s hip dysplasia while avoiding harsh medications or invasive surgical procedures. Not only does it provide immediate relief from pain associated with misaligned joints, but it also restores mobility while preventing further damage down the line. Allowing your four-legged best friend continued comfort throughout their life is key — make sure you take advantage of all resources available today. With regular visits and proper care planning you will be able to give your dog many happy years for you to enjoy together!