I would like to get your opinion on the value of these braces for a dog with severe OA of the elbow (also has mild OA contralateral elbow and both stifles). The client came across these herself, our veterinarian feels it would not be beneficial but is open to learning more.
https://orthopets.com/brace-and-prosthe ... ons/elbow/
Thank you
Braces for OA
Re: Braces for OA
Hey there!
So... my opinion is that a brace can't help OA. If there is an associated instability, then yes. However, if the joint is solidified and painful, I don't believe that a custom brace will help.
I do here subjective reports that just neoprene braces, or those 'Back on Track' braces, or really, any circumferential thing that 'warms' the joint seem so provide some subjective relief.
I would instead focus on maintenance therapies - treat the joint (modalities, acup, manual therapy), manage pain, nutraceuticals, maybe regenerative medicine, therapeutic exercise within reason, and owner education are key. And you'd want to figure out how often works for the dog - start with once a week and gradually taper down to see what interval can tend to maintain the dog.
Essentially, a brace (especially for the elbow) can't really reduce the weightbearing pressures on the joint. So, what's to be gained?
My 2 cents!
Laurie
So... my opinion is that a brace can't help OA. If there is an associated instability, then yes. However, if the joint is solidified and painful, I don't believe that a custom brace will help.
I do here subjective reports that just neoprene braces, or those 'Back on Track' braces, or really, any circumferential thing that 'warms' the joint seem so provide some subjective relief.
I would instead focus on maintenance therapies - treat the joint (modalities, acup, manual therapy), manage pain, nutraceuticals, maybe regenerative medicine, therapeutic exercise within reason, and owner education are key. And you'd want to figure out how often works for the dog - start with once a week and gradually taper down to see what interval can tend to maintain the dog.
Essentially, a brace (especially for the elbow) can't really reduce the weightbearing pressures on the joint. So, what's to be gained?
My 2 cents!
Laurie
LAURIE EDGE-HUGHES