My older dog limps after exercise. How to prevent joint pain?

Question

Hi, Rocco seems to sprain his ankles often. Sometimes after running and playing he will limp and favor a leg. He runs fast and will stop and turn around on a dime. Currently his front right leg is bothering him. We have him resting and when he gets up he limps really bad, but after walking around for a few minutes he's not limping as bad, although still favoring it. Usually he heals within a week or so, but is there anything I can give him or do to help prevent this? He's 6.5 years old. Thanks! Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Male | neutered | 6 years and 7 months old | 80 lbs

Jeffrey Milner · Accepted Answer

I'm glad to hear that Rocco is still energetic as ever. In terms of things you can do to help with Rocco's discomfort, you might want to consider limiting the type of exercise that causes this kind of pain. As Rocco gets older, his joints may not be as well lubricated as they once were and he may even be experiencing some onset of arthritis. This can be verified with a physical exam and/or x-rays of the affected joints. Though you have indicated this only seems to happen after significant exercise, it might also be worth checking for tick borne diseases that can cause shifting leg lameness. Even though it doesn't seem likely in this case, if that were causing this it would be easily treatable. As for things you can do actively to treat the discomfort, I would consider starting Rocco on a joint supplement and/or fish oils. They will help lubricate the joints and reduce the affect of osteoarthritis long term. Pharmaceuticals available for the treatment of pain and inflammation in dog are extensive and variable. Some are generalized anti inflammatories, opioid pain killers, and some that address neuropathic pain. Other treatment modalities to address discomfort and inflammation include laser therapy, acupuncture, massage, and certain types of therapeutic exercises. The first thing you need to do though is have Rocco examined to rule out any sort of injury. Once that is determined, you can move onto treatment and prevention. Hope this helps.

My older dog limps after exercise. How to prevent joint pain?

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