Hip dysplasia in dogs – modern treatment methods

Introduction

Hip dysplasia in dogs is a developmental disease that leads to joint instability, progressive cartilage degradation and painful degenerative changes. It most commonly affects large breeds (e.g. German Shepherds, Labradors, Golden Retrievers), but can also occur in other animals. The condition is chronic and requires a comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic approach.

 

Symptoms of hip dysplasia:

 

  • lameness worsening after exercise,
  • reluctance to run, jump onto the sofa or climb stairs,
  • ‘rocking’ gait, especially in the hip area,
  • morning stiffness and difficulty getting up,
  • muscle atrophy in the hindquarters in dogs with more advanced stages of the disease.

 


Standard treatment

Treatment of dysplasia includes anti-inflammatory drug therapy, weight control, physiotherapy, cartilage-supporting supplements, and surgery (e.g., pelvic osteotomy, hip replacement). These methods alleviate symptoms and stabilise the joint, but do not restore the natural structure of the cartilage.

 


Modern biological therapies

 

Mesenchymal stem cells

MSCs have the ability to differentiate into chondrocytes (i.e. cells that form cartilage) and rebuild cartilage. They are particularly valuable in hip dysplasia because they slow down the degenerative process, improve stability and reduce pain symptoms. They can be used alone or as a supplement to reconstructive surgery.

 👉Check out how mesenchymal stem cells work

 

PRP – platelet-rich plasma

In the early stages of dysplasia, the use of PRP supports the hip joint environment. Thanks to the growth factors contained in platelets, inflammation can be reduced, pain alleviated and range of motion improved.

 👉 Learn more about PRP

 

Therapy IL-1

In advanced dysplasia, when significant joint destruction has already occurred, IL-1 therapy helps to reduce chronic inflammation and alleviate pain, improving the dog's quality of life.

 👉 Learn more about IL-1 pain therapy and treatment

 

 

Approach depending on the stage of the disease

 

  • Stage 1 – early symptoms: PRP to reduce inflammation and pain.

    Stage 2 – progressive phase: MSC to rebuild cartilage and improve joint stability.

    Stage 3 – advanced phase: IL-1 and/or surgery in combination with biological therapies.

 

 

Summary

Hip dysplasia in dogs is a chronic disease that requires an individual approach. Early diagnosis and the use of biological therapies – PRP, MSC, IL-1 – can significantly improve a dog's quality of life, reduce pain and slow down the progression of the disease.

 

FAQ

Is hip dysplasia in dogs curable?
Can PRP and MSC be used in young dogs?
How long do the effects of MSC therapy last?
Is surgery necessary for dysplasia?
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